Trump warns Iran ships amid blockade
Washington, Apr 13
U.S. President Donald Trump Monday warned Iran that any naval vessels approaching American ships enforcing a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz would be "immediately ELIMINATED," as tensions escalated following the collapse of peace talks.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said that Iran's naval capabilities had been severely degraded.
"Iran's Navy is lying at the bottom of the sea, completely obliterated - 158 ships," he wrote, while noting that Tehran still retains a limited number of "fast attack ships."
"What we have not hit are their small number of, what they call, 'fast attack ships,' because we did not consider them much of a threat," Trump said.
He issued a direct warning to Iran against challenging the U.S. blockade.
"Warning: If any of these ships come anywhere close to our BLOCKADE, they will be immediately ELIMINATED, using the same system of kill that we use against the drug dealers on boats at Sea. It is quick and brutal," he added.
The warning came as the United States began enforcing a blockade on Iranian ports at 10 a.m. ET Monday (7.30 om IST), targeting maritime access in the Strait of Hormuz after diplomatic efforts with Tehran broke down over the weekend.
U.S. Central Command said the blockade would apply to vessels of all nations interacting with Iranian ports and coastal areas, with ships subject to "interception, diversion, and capture" if they fail to comply.
Iran has condemned the U.S. move as "piracy" and warned it would respond with "decisive" force, raising the risk of renewed hostilities less than a week into a fragile ceasefire.
Tehran also signalled that no port in the Persian Gulf or the Sea of Oman would remain secure if its own facilities were threatened, underscoring the potential for escalation across the wider region.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While the US has its reasons, calling for the immediate elimination of ships is extremely aggressive language. It sets a dangerous precedent. The world needs dialogue, not threats, especially in such a volatile region. Hope cooler heads prevail.
India has strong ties with both nations. We must tread carefully. Our foreign policy should focus on protecting Indian interests—our diaspora in the Gulf and our oil imports. A balanced approach is key. Jai Hind.
The blockade on "vessels of all nations" is the most problematic part. It's essentially imposing US law on international waters. This will hurt global trade far beyond the US-Iran conflict. International maritime law must be respected.
Feeling anxious for our Indian sailors and the merchant navy community. Many of our cargo and tanker ships pass through that area. The government should issue immediate advisories and possibly consider alternative routes for the time being. Safety first.
Iran calling it "piracy" isn't wrong. A unilateral blockade by one country against another's ports is an act of war, not law enforcement. The UN Security Council should intervene before this spirals. The world can't afford another major conflict.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.