Tensions are escalating in the Strait of Hormuz, with the United States saying it now has “absolute control” of the area and is moving to restore navigation.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, speaking on Fox News, claimed that Washington is “opening the Straits” as part of the so-called “Operation Freedom”, which he described as an international humanitarian mission. He stressed that “the Iranians are not in control,” and noted that U.S. strategy is based on the principle of “fire only when fired upon.”
According to CENTCOM, two US-flagged merchant ships have safely crossed the Strait, while US warships are already operating in the Persian Gulf, supporting freedom of navigation.
At the same time, Iran openly disputes the US statements and warns that the passage of ships through the region should only be done in coordination with the Iranian armed forces. Through state media, Tehran has reiterated that it considers the Straits to be under its own security responsibility.
At the same time, an incident involving a South Korean merchant ship that caught fire in the engine room, possibly after an explosion, is causing intense concern. According to authorities, there are no reports of casualties and the cause remains under investigation.
The situation remains volatile, with conflicting announcements from both sides and an increased military presence in the region, heightening concerns about the safety of international shipping and energy stability.
