Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has raised concerns about possible plans by “enemies” to seize an Iranian island with backing from a regional state. Ghalibaf stated that any advancement towards the island would prompt severe attacks on the vital infrastructure of the supporting country without limitations. He also emphasized Iran’s vigilance regarding US military activities in the region, particularly troop movements.
Ghalibaf’s statements coincide with reports suggesting the US Pentagon’s intention to deploy thousands of troops from the elite 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East. In response, the US government has declared an escalation of efforts to safeguard the crucial Strait of Hormuz and ensure stable global oil traffic amidst ongoing military actions against Iran. The White House has underscored the protection of energy routes essential for the world economy.
The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, highlighted the US military’s focus on neutralizing Iran’s capacity to disrupt shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a pivotal passage for global energy supplies. Additionally, US forces have targeted Iranian military installations along the strait’s coast as part of their strategy to maintain energy flow security. Recent events include joint Israeli and US strikes on Iranian locations, leading to retaliatory actions from Iran against Israel and US assets in the Middle East.
