WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has warned of continued military action around the Strait of Hormuz, saying several countries could join the United States in efforts to keep the vital shipping route open.
In a statement shared on social media, Trump repeated his claim that Iran’s military capabilities had been significantly weakened but cautioned that Tehran could still launch limited attacks, including drone strikes or missile attacks in or near the Strait of Hormuz.
He also alleged that Iran could lay naval mines in the area, posing risks to international shipping.
Trump expressed hope that countries including China, France, Japan, South Korea and United Kingdom would send naval vessels to help maintain security in the waterway.
He further said that the United States would continue heavy bombardment along coastal areas near the strait and target Iranian boats and vessels if necessary, adding that Washington aims to ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open, secure and free for global navigation.
Meanwhile, over the past few decades, the United States has built one of the most formidable arsenals in human history, and Iran is now confronting it.
According to international reports, the US is testing several of its advanced weapons in combat for the first time in the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Since the launch of “Operation Epic Fury” on February 28, the US has employed billions of dollars’ worth of military hardware to weaken Iran’s defense capabilities. These include drones, torpedoes, long-range missiles, and F-35 fighter jets.
US combat drones in the operation can strike targets over long distances while being relatively inexpensive, costing around $35,000 each. A high-precision missile capable of hitting targets up to 500 kilometers away, priced at $1.5 million, is also being tested.
The US is deploying the F-35 stealth fighter jets in combat for the first time, although they were developed 20 years ago. Each F-35 costs approximately $80 million.
Additionally, a new variant of the Tomahawk missile, priced at $2 million, is being used in the conflict.
International reports note that the ongoing war highlights the clash between America’s overwhelming military might and Iran’s strong will to survive.
