Trump Announces Rescue Operation for Ships in Strait of Hormuz

Dangerous Situation in the Arabian Gulf

The Joint Maritime Information Center reports that approximately 2,000 freighters and tankers, along with over 20,000 sailors, are currently blocked in the Arabian Gulf. The center has established an expanded security zone south of usual trade routes to guide ships through Omani territorial waters.

However, crossing the Strait of Hormuz remains extremely hazardous, the agency warned, due to uncharted sea mines threatening passage. The U.S. Navy will not directly escort the ships but will remain nearby to deter Iranian attacks. Two U.S. merchant vessels have already exited the Arabian Gulf and are safe.

Iranian Threats and Incidents

Meanwhile, Iran has vowed to forcibly stop any ship violating its rules for passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian news agency Fars also claimed an American warship was struck by two missiles, though the U.S. denied this.

The United Arab Emirates accused Iran of attacking an oil tanker with drones on Monday. As a confidence-building measure, the U.S. released the crew of a seized Iranian freighter and handed them over to Pakistan for repatriation to Iran.

The situation in the strategically vital waterway remains tense as the international rescue operation unfolds. The U.S. emphasizes the humanitarian nature of the mission, while Iran views it as a provocation.