New York, USA – The Wall Street Journal, citing US military officials, revealed that the United States and its allies have launched a major military operation aimed at forcibly reopening the Strait of Hormuz. These actions are part of a comprehensive strategy to end the paralysis of international shipping in this vital waterway since the beginning of March, a situation stemming from ongoing Iranian military threats.
Low-flying aircraft and direct targeting
According to the report, military sources observed intensive flights by US attack aircraft at low altitudes over key shipping lanes. This was part of a specific mission to target and disrupt Iranian warships and naval vessels. Apache attack helicopters also entered the fray, tasked with intercepting and shooting down explosive-laden drones launched by Tehran to threaten commercial ships and oil tankers.
The Pentagon’s multi-stage plan
These intensive air operations are a cornerstone of the Pentagon’s multi-phase plan, specifically designed to counter the three threats posed by Tehran: armed fast boats, sea mines, and cruise missiles. Military leaders aim to secure safe passage for large warships in this phase, paving the way for the final phase: providing full military escorts for oil tankers and commercial vessels entering and leaving the Persian Gulf.
Economic and security repercussions
Iranian threats effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz for several weeks, leading to historic spikes in global oil prices and increased pressure on international supply chains. Observers believe that Washington’s resort to direct air strikes reflects the White House’s desire to break the naval blockade as quickly as possible. This move also aims to avert a full-blown global energy crisis at a time when the Gulf waters are becoming an open battleground between international powers and Iranian military capabilities that are disrupting the lifeblood of the global economy.
