Tension has increased significantly in the Gulf region between America and Iran. US War Secretary Pete Hegseth has said in clear words that either Iran should keep the Strait of Hormuz open for commercial ships or be prepared to face strong US military action. President Donald Trump has also taken a tough stance and asked the friendly countries to now protect their oil themselves. Meanwhile, Israel and America have carried out air strikes on many Iranian targets, which has worsened the situation further.
What is the stance of America and President Donald Trump?
US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth told a press briefing that the coming days are going to be very important for the conflict in the Middle East. He said that America has many options for military action and Iran’s strength is continuously decreasing. President Trump has given a statement that Iran has been almost completely destroyed and now countries like Britain should show their courage and take their oil from the Strait of Hormuz. Trump has made it clear that America will no longer come forward to help these countries. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Marco Rubio says that America will achieve its target in a few weeks.
Iran’s action and the latest situation of regional tension
Iran has started taking strict measures in response to American threats. Iran’s parliament has approved a proposal to impose tax on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Also, Iran has announced that it will close this route for the ships of America, Israel and those countries which are involved in imposing sanctions on it. The severity of tensions in the Gulf can be understood from the following incidents:
An Iranian drone has targeted a Kuwaiti oil tanker near Dubai. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have carried out several airstrikes on critical infrastructure near Tehran. US CENTCOM has also begun targeting military targets inside Iran. The Iranian Foreign Ministry has denied any direct talks with the US.