U.S. Secretary of Defense: Will Ensure Freedom of Navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, Warns Iran Against Attacking Commercial Shipping

BlockBeats News, May 5th, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth commented on the Middle East situation, stating that the U.S. is taking action to ensure the security of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that the U.S. is not seeking conflict but is prepared to respond if necessary.

Hegseth stated that the U.S. President has directed the Central Command to restore commercial freedom of navigation in the strait. Currently, U.S. commercial ships have passed through with the assistance of U.S. Navy destroyers, keeping the waterway open. At the same time, hundreds of ships are queuing up to pass through.

He pointed out that Iran has long been disrupting maritime traffic and attempting to "weaponize" vital shipping lanes for economic gain, calling their actions "unacceptable." Hegseth warned that if Iran attacks commercial shipping, they will face an "overwhelming firepower response."

Furthermore, he mentioned that the U.S. is in close communication with allies, shipping companies, and insurance firms to stabilize the situation. He also called on the international community to collectively assume responsibility for maritime security at the appropriate time.