N. Prabhakaran DUBAI: President Donald Trump has demanded that several nations, including the United Kingdom, deploy naval assets to secure ...
N. Prabhakaran
DUBAI: President Donald Trump has demanded that several nations, including the United Kingdom, deploy naval assets to secure the Strait of Hormuz following a series of Iranian attacks.
In a post shared on Truth Social on Saturday, Trump asserted that countries most impacted by disruptions in the Strait—specifically China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK—must join the United States in a naval coalition to keep the vital sea lane open and safe.
"Many countries affected by Iran's attempt to close the Strait of Hormuz will send warships to keep the passage secure," Trump wrote.
While claiming that the U.S. has "100% destroyed" Iran's primary military capability, Trump warned that Tehran might still attempt asymmetric attacks using drones, sea mines, or short-range missiles within the strategic corridor, which handles a massive share of the world’s oil exports. He further signaled that Washington would maintain aggressive military operations along Iran’s southern coastline to preempt further threats.
"The United States will conduct heavy bombing of coastal areas and shoot down Iranian boats and ships," Trump posted. "One way or another, we will soon make the Strait of Hormuz open, safe, and free!"
A Global Maritime Crisis
The Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoint, is currently in a state of extreme volatility. The crisis escalated after Iran partially obstructed the passage, which facilitates approximately 20% of global oil consumption.
Since Iranian efforts to close the route began in early March, shipping traffic has plummeted by nearly 90%. To avoid the danger zone, most oil tankers are now opting for the significantly longer route around the Cape of Good Hope in Africa. These disruptions follow reports of Iran targeting commercial vessels with drones and sea mines, including recent strikes on Thai and Japanese ships.
INS Sumitra is currently stationed in the Gulf of Oman, actively securing LPG tankers bound for Indian ports
Divided International Response
The U.S. Navy is prepared to begin immediate escort operations for oil tankers. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the UK government is evaluating its options; while the UK supports protecting merchant shipping, Starmer emphasized that further diplomatic discussions are necessary.
French President Emmanuel Macron indicated a willingness to join a multinational fleet should tensions escalate further. Conversely, China appears to be prioritizing direct negotiations with Tehran to ensure the safety of its own vessels, rather than joining a U.S.-led military coalition.
The ongoing crisis has triggered a sharp spike in global energy markets, with oil prices currently surging between $90 and $120 per barrel. Additionally, skyrocketing insurance premiums have begun to severely hamper global freight movements.
India’s Strategic Autonomy
Amid the global standoff, the Indian Navy has taken independent action by providing direct escorts to Indian-flagged vessels passing through the Strait. Notably, the Iranian administration has reportedly assured New Delhi that it will not target Indian shipping, describing India as a "friendly nation."
As part of this protective mission, INS Sumitra is currently stationed in the Gulf of Oman, actively securing LPG tankers bound for Indian ports.
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