WASHINGTON: The United States announced that it has ended the offensive phase of its military operation in the Strait of Hormuz, and said it will not allow Tehran to control the waterway.
President Donald Trump said the U.S. Navy will temporarily pause its mission to guide ships through the strait, citing a request from Pakistan and progress in talks with Iran.
He also said the naval blockade of Iranian ports will continue. This pause comes as diplomatic efforts increase.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that although Iran has a “high pain threshold,” it is not unlimited. He urged Tehran to return to negotiations.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continued, and fighting between Hezbollah and Israel grew more intense.
Hezbollah attacked Israeli targets in southern Lebanon, including Rashaf, and Israeli strikes killed two people in Deir Kifa. Reports of regional escalation, Iran’s army spokesperson refuted allegations of strikes against the United Arab Emirates, describing reports of attacks as media claims. The UAE reported a second day of bombardment.
The IRGC Navy warned ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz that those using unauthorized routes would face a “decisive response.”
To sum up, analysts say the U.S. announcement marks a shift from direct attacks to a strategy of containment and pressure.
The goal is to keep the Strait open and maintain leverage in talks with Tehran.
