Washington, March 13: Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, the United States is fully prepared to provide naval security for commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This move could significantly impact global energy supplies.
White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly stated, “President Donald Trump is ready to deploy US Navy escorts through Hormuz if deemed necessary. Our military has already destroyed over 20 inactive mine-laying boats and will continue to do so.”
This statement from the White House comes as Washington considers measures to secure vessels in this narrow waterway, which is crucial for global energy trade.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent mentioned that as soon as conditions allow for safe passage, the US Navy may begin escorting ships through the strait, possibly in collaboration with an international coalition. Reports indicate that the US has been planning for such emergencies.
“I believe that as soon as it is militarily feasible, the US Navy will escort ships through this strait in conjunction with an international coalition,” Bessent added. He further noted, “We have been analyzing various scenarios for months and weeks, indicating that preparations for maritime security operations have been underway.”
Shipping activities through the Strait of Hormuz have slowed significantly due to attacks on vessels in the Gulf region and increasing military skirmishes. This strait, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most important maritime routes for oil and gas trade.
According to international media reports, a cargo ship was attacked by an “unknown missile” approximately 50 nautical miles northwest of Dubai, resulting in a fire on board and necessitating the evacuation of the crew. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Centre reported that all crew members are safe and an investigation is ongoing.
Authorities have advised vessels operating in the area to exercise caution and report any suspicious activity.
This disruption has raised concerns for India, which heavily relies on energy shipments passing through this waterway. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the deteriorating situation in the region. PM Modi expressed deep concern over rising tensions, civilian casualties, and damage to civilian infrastructure. He emphasized that the safety of Indian citizens, as well as the uninterrupted flow of goods and energy, are India’s top priorities. Modi reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability, urging dialogue and diplomacy.
Indian officials noted that this was the first direct contact between the two leaders since the conflict began last month. New Delhi has been expanding its diplomatic outreach in West Asia in recent days. PM Modi has engaged with several regional leaders, including those from Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, Israel, and Qatar.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has also discussed maritime security with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated in a press briefing that there have been three recent conversations between the Indian and Iranian foreign ministers, focusing on shipping security and India’s energy security.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
