United States - Ekhbary News Agency
Top U.S. defense officials, including Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, asserted on Thursday that American forces are prepared to use force against any ships failing to comply with the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. This declaration was made despite an ongoing two-week ceasefire in the war with Iran.
General Caine explicitly stated, "If you do not comply with the blockade, we will use force." Secretary Hegseth affirmed the U.S. intention to maintain the "successful blockade" of the vital waterway, highlighting the military's capability to transition swiftly from blockade operations to "major combat operations." He further elaborated that under President Trump's directive, the War Department is committed to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, preferring a diplomatic resolution but prepared for forceful action if necessary.
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The blockade encompasses all vessels, regardless of nationality, attempting to enter or exit Iranian ports. Reports indicate that 13 ships have already "wisely chosen to turn around" to avoid confrontation. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has not yet needed to board any vessels. Within the first 72 hours of the blockade, 14 ships reportedly altered their course.
