Iran Warns US Over Hormuz Operations As Tensions Rise In Gulf Region

Tensions in the Gulf region escalated on Monday after Iran cautioned that any foreign military presence in the Strait of Hormuz would face retaliation, directly addressing plans announced by the United States.

In a statement, Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said its forces would act against any attempt by foreign militaries, particularly US forces, to enter the strategic waterway.

The command reiterated that Iran controls security in the strait and requires vessels to coordinate movement with its armed forces.

The warning followed the United States’s decision to begin operations aimed at assisting ships currently unable to move through the Strait of Hormuz.

According to reports, several vessels remain stranded in the area due to ongoing tensions linked to the US–Iran situation.

US President Donald Trump said multiple countries had sought US help to secure safe passage for ships caught in the disruption, even though they were not directly involved in the conflict. He described the initiative, named ‘Project Freedom’, as an effort to guide these vessels out of restricted waters and allow them to resume normal operations.

Trump framed the move as humanitarian, pointing to concerns about crew welfare, including shortages of food and essential supplies aboard stranded ships.

The operation will likely begin on Monday, Middle Eastern time.

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed its participation, stating that it would deploy significant resources to support the mission and restore normal shipping activity in the region.

The plan includes the use of guided-missile destroyers, over 100 aircraft operating across land and sea, unmanned systems, and around 15,000 military personnel.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical route for global energy shipments, and international markets and governments closely watch any escalation in the area.