Iran’s military has warned United States forces not to enter the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions following comments by President Donald Trump on U.S. efforts to assist stranded ships in the Gulf amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
Trump said the United States would begin helping to free vessels trapped in the strategic waterway, where hundreds of ships and thousands of seafarers have reportedly been stranded for more than two months due to the conflict. He gave few details but said the aim was to ensure safe passage for commercial shipping.
“We have told these Countries that we will guide their Ships safely out of these restricted Waterways, so that they can freely and ably get on with their business,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.
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In response, Iran’s armed forces issued a stern warning, insisting that any foreign military presence in the Strait would be met with force.
Iranian military officials also reiterated that maritime security in the Strait remains under their control, stressing that shipping movements must be coordinated with Iranian forces.
“We have repeatedly said the security of the Strait of Hormuz is in our hands,” said Ali Abdollahi, head of Iran’s unified military command.
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said it would support the mission with about 15,000 personnel, aircraft, naval assets, and drones, describing the operation as essential for regional stability and global economic security.
Meanwhile, the International Maritime Organization reported that hundreds of ships remain unable to transit the Strait, worsening disruptions in global trade and energy supply chains.
Tensions further escalated after reports of a tanker being struck by unknown projectiles near the Strait, although all crew members were confirmed safe.
Iran has maintained restrictions on most foreign shipping in the Gulf, a move that has driven up global oil prices and intensified fears over energy security.
The United States has also sought to build an international coalition to secure the waterway, though details of participating countries remain unclear.
Despite the rising tensions, diplomatic signals continue in parallel, with Iran reviewing a U.S. response to a proposed peace framework, even as both sides remain divided over nuclear negotiations and regional security conditions.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, with about a fifth of global oil shipments passing through it, making the standoff a major concern for the international community.
