A senior official in Iran's naval force has stated that US ships and destroyers will not be spared if a new war erupts. The official, who serves as the political deputy in the naval force of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, made the comments in an interview with the Iranian news agency Fars. He emphasized that Iranian naval forces will target enemy ships and destroyers, even in the Indian Ocean, if a new military confrontation occurs.
The official's remarks reflect ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington regarding maritime security and control of the strategic waterway. The comments were made in response to recent statements by US President Donald Trump regarding the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian official questioned the US military presence in the region, suggesting that if Washington considers the strait to be under its control, it should demonstrate its presence with warships.
The official called on the US to send one of its warships to the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting the continued strain in relations between the two nations. According to a recent public tracking of the US fleet as of September 21, there are currently five major US warships in the Indian Ocean: the destroyers USS Mustin, USS McFaul, USS Milius, and USS John Finn, as well as the cruiser USS Princeton.
In addition to the ships in the Indian Ocean, a larger US naval presence is deployed in the Arabian Sea. This includes the aircraft carriers USS George Washington and USS George H.W. Bush, along with their air groups and accompanying ships. The US naval presence also features the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer and units of the US Marine Corps.
The Iranian naval force's warning comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the US. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway for global oil exports, and any disruption to shipping traffic could have significant economic implications. Iran has previously threatened to block the strait in response to US sanctions and other pressures.
The US and Iran have experienced strained relations since the US withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018. The JCPOA, also known as the Iran nuclear deal, was negotiated between Iran and six major world powers, including the US, in 2015. The agreement placed limits on Iran's nuclear program in exchange for relief from economic sanctions.
The latest developments highlight the ongoing risks of military conflict in the region. With both sides maintaining a strong naval presence, the potential for miscalculation or escalation remains a concern. The international community closely watches developments in the region, given the potential impact on global security and stability.
Key points
- Iran's naval force warns it will target US ships and destroyers in the Indian Ocean if a new war breaks out.
