The US Central Command (CENTCOM) warned it would never tolerate any future Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that protecting freedom of navigation remains a key US priority, according to Al-Arabiya English.
Speaking to Al Arabiya, a CENTCOM spokesperson said that US forces are committed to preserving international shipping routes and will respond to any threats against commercial maritime traffic.
“We will not ignore any Iranian attacks on commercial vessels,” the spokesperson added, stressing that protecting maritime traffic is crucial to both regional and global security.
The spokesperson noted that the recent US military strikes on Iranian targets sought to deter future attacks while solidifying freedom of navigation, rather than fuel further escalation.
At the same time, CENTCOM stressed that the Washington is dedicated to de-escalation but warned it would act if commercial shipping came under attack.
The remarks came a day after US forces launched strikes on Iranian military targets in response to a drone attack on a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz.
Tehran said a projectile hit the area near a pier in Sirik, southern Iran, prompting its naval forces to launch strikes against US military targets in the region.
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