Tensions have escalated in the Strait of Hormuz as Iran warned it would attack U.S. forces attempting to enter the strategic waterway, following an announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump that American troops would begin escorting stranded vessels out of the area.
Trump stated that the U.S. military would commence the operation, dubbed “Project Freedom,” from Monday morning (Middle East time), describing it as a humanitarian effort aimed at assisting ships unable to exit the strait.
He noted that many vessels are running critically low on food supplies.
According to the International Maritime Organization, about 2,000 ships and 20,000 seafarers have been trapped in the strait since the outbreak of hostilities between the United States and Iran.
In response, the Iranian military asserted its control over the Strait of Hormuz, warning that it would confront any foreign armed forces attempting to enter the area, with particular emphasis on U.S. forces.
The U.S. military disclosed that the planned operation would involve significant assets, including guided-missile destroyers, more than 100 aircraft operating on land and at sea, and approximately 15,000 personnel.
Meanwhile, Pakistan announced that 22 crew members aboard an Iranian vessel seized by the United States would be handed over to Iranian authorities.
