ARAB AND WORLD

Sat 14 Mar 2026 12:24 pm - Jerusalem Time

US Military Move to Open Strait of Hormuz: Marine Force Heads to Region Amidst Iranian Threats

US President Donald Trump has issued urgent orders to move a force of Marines towards the Middle East, in a step aimed at forcibly reopening the Strait of Hormuz. These military movements come amidst growing fears of a global economic recession that could be caused by a sharp rise in energy prices due to escalating tensions.

Official sources confirmed that the warship 'USS Tripoli' has already sailed from Okinawa base in Japan, carrying approximately 5,000 sailors. This force includes the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, a unit specialized in special ground and air operations and capable of executing complex amphibious landings.

On the ground, Friday witnessed a significant escalation after additional oil tankers were fired upon by Iranian forces in the Gulf waters. This attack followed statements by the new Iranian Supreme Leader, in which he affirmed Tehran's commitment to closing the strategic strait until military attacks targeting Iranian territory cease.

Military analysts believe that the mission to secure the international shipping lane may not be limited to naval escort, but may require a large-scale ground operation. Reports published by international newspapers warned that such an intervention could lead to significant human casualties among US and allied forces due to the complex military geography of the region.

In a related context, General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, indicated that the Pentagon is dealing with a 'very complex tactical environment.' Caine explained during a press briefing that the military leadership is seeking to confirm all details before taking any executive step that could lead to a direct and comprehensive confrontation.

Proposals have emerged within US political circles calling for the seizure of Kharg Island, which is Iran's most important oil center. Although the island has not been directly affected by the conflict so far, controlling it could represent a strategic bargaining chip to ensure oil flow and prevent Tehran from using it as a base for its operations.

On the economic front, Washington took a surprising step by easing sanctions on Russian oil in an attempt to calm global markets. This decision created a rift in positions with London, where the British government expressed the need to continue financial pressure on Moscow and not to compromise on the Russian 'war chest' issue.

For his part, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated that the US Navy may begin escorting oil tankers by the end of this month. Wright admitted that US forces are not fully prepared for this mission at present, as military assets are currently focused on destroying Iranian offensive capabilities and military manufacturing industries.

Economic data indicates that fuel prices in the United States have reached record levels, with the price per gallon in California reaching approximately $8. Experts warn that the continued closure of the strait, through which 20% of the world's supplies pass, could push oil barrels to exceed the $300 mark if the conflict is prolonged.

Amidst this deadlock, a Turkish mediating role emerged, with the Turkish Minister of Transport announcing that a vessel belonging to his country had crossed the strait after obtaining direct permission from Iranian authorities. 14 other Turkish vessels are still waiting in the region for coordination with Tehran, at a time when Washington lacks conclusive evidence of Iran planting naval mines so far.

It's a complex tactical environment, and before we execute anything, we want to make sure we have all the field data.

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US Military Move to Open Strait of Hormuz: Marine Force Heads to Region Amidst Iranian Threats

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