Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Monday warned that it would launch attacks on US forces if they attempted to break the siege of the Strait of Hormuz, following US President Donald Trump’s announcement to assist ships stranded in the critical waterway.
Negotiations between the two nations have collapsed after Iran rejected engaging with the US leadership over the inclusion of its nuclear programme and the exclusion of Lebanon from the talks.
Trump said on Sunday that the new maritime operation, which he dubbed “Project Freedom,” was a “humanitarian” gesture for crews aboard ships caught in the blockade who may be running low on food and other essential supplies.
“We will use our best efforts to get their ships and crews safely out of the Strait. In all cases, they said they will not return until the area becomes safe for navigation,” Trump posted on Truth Social, saying operations would begin on Monday.
In response, the IRGC military command said that any safe passage through Hormuz must be properly coordinated with its forces “under all circumstances”.
“We warn that any foreign armed force, especially the aggressive US military, if they intend to approach or enter the Strait of Hormuz, will be targeted and attacked,” Major General Ali Abdollahi said in a statement carried by state broadcaster IRIB.
The situation remains tense with experts warning that hostile narratives being put forward by both sides could escalate the situation at any moment. While Trump’s hostile statements on Sunday have become routine, many believe he does this to trigger uncertainties in the global market and benefit his associates by cashing in on the ongoing uncertainties while majority of the countries are experiencing an economic slowdown.
Also read: US will review Iran’s latest 14-point peace proposal: Trump
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