Iran Warns It Will Target U.S., Israeli Ships in Hormuz, as it Remains Open

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said the Strait of Hormuz would remain open but warned that ships linked to the United States or Israel passing through the strategic waterway could be targeted.

A spokesman said Iran had no plans to shut the strait despite the escalating conflict in the region.

“We did not close the Strait of Hormuz and will not, but we will target ships belonging to the U.S. regime and the Zionist entity transiting the Strait of Hormuz,” the spokesman said as cited in the Wall StreetThe warning highlights the growing risks to shipping in the narrow passage, which is one of the world’s most important routes for global oil supplies.

Threats Against U.S. and Israeli Vessels
Iran’s statement suggested that while the strait would remain open to international shipping, vessels connected to the United States or Israel could face attacks.

The spokesman also referenced past incidents in the region, warning that Washington should remember previous attacks on tankers.

“We recommend that, before any decision, the Americans remember the burning of the American supertanker Bridgeton in 1987 and the oil tankers that have been targeted recently,” he said.

U.S. Considers Escorting Tankers
Donald Trump said earlier this week that the U.S. Navy could begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz if necessary to ensure the flow of oil.

However, experts say the United States currently lacks enough naval vessels nearby to fully secure the waterway.

Shipping Through the Strait Nearly Halted
Iran has sent mixed signals about whether it might close the strait entirely. When the conflict began, Iranian officials indicated it would remain open, but later statements suggested any ship attempting to cross could be burned.