US Considering Armed Guards on Commercial Ships in the Strait of Hormuz

Iran has recently taken measures to enhance its maritime capabilities amidst escalating tensions with the United States in the Strait of Hormuz. The country’s Revolutionary Guard’s navy has been equipped with drones and missiles with a range of 1,000km (600 miles).

The decision to bolster its naval capabilities was made in response to the US military’s consideration of placing armed personnel on commercial ships that pass through the strategic strait. The US aims to prevent Iran from seizing civilian vessels operating in the area.

Responding to the potential presence of US guards, Brigadier-General Abolfazl Shekarchi, spokesperson for Iran’s armed forces, criticized the US by questioning its involvement in the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, and the Indian Ocean, stating, “What is your business being here?”

Furthermore, the Revolutionary Guard’s Navy Commander, Alireza Tangsiri, emphasized that the newly acquired missiles possess improved precision and a longer range. These cruise missiles have the capability to simultaneously target multiple locations, with commands that can be modified after launch.

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According to state news agency IRNA, the Revolutionary Guards’ arsenal now includes various types of drones, as well as several hundred cruise and ballistic missiles with a range of 300 to 1,000km. These enhancements reinforce their naval capabilities and increase the potential threat to foreign ships in the region.

Iran’s frequent seizure of ships in the strait since 2019 has been an attempt to pressure Western countries in negotiations concerning its nuclear deal with world powers. The deployment of US armed personnel on commercial ships can serve as a deterrent to Iran’s seizure of vessels and potentially alleviate tensions. However, it also raises the risk of further escalating the conflict.

This contemplated move by the US signifies a significant commitment of forces in the Middle East at a time when the Pentagon seeks to prioritize challenges from Russia and China.

In 1988, during the ‘Tanker War’ between the US Navy and Iran, the US did not take such measures, making the potential deployment of armed personnel on commercial ships remarkable.

To address Iran’s actions at sea, the US has already deployed A-10 Thunderbolt II warplanes, F-16 and F-35 fighters, as well as warships such as the destroyer USS Thomas Hudner to the region. However, Iran has voiced its opposition to foreign involvement in providing security in the region.

In a recent military drill, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard conducted exercises on disputed islands in the Gulf, involving small fast boats, paratroopers, and missile units.

The importance of the Strait of Hormuz cannot be understated, as approximately one-fifth of the world’s crude oil passes through this narrow chokepoint between Iran and Oman.

When Iran detains vessels, it typically accuses them of shipping violations, and the release of these vessels often depends on the reciprocal release of detained Iranian ships by foreign countries.

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