The United States is prepared to provide naval escorts for commercial vessels through the strategic Strait of Hormuz as tensions rise in the Middle East. White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly stated that President Trump is fully prepared to deploy US Navy escorts through the strait if necessary, with over 20 inactive mine-laying boats already destroyed. The US is considering measures to ensure the safe passage of global energy trade through this vital waterway.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent mentioned that the US Navy, potentially with international support, could start escorting ships through the strait once conditions permit safe transit. Bessent highlighted that the US has been planning for such scenarios, with preparations for maritime security operations already in progress. The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial chokepoint for oil and gas trade located between Iran and Oman, has seen a significant slowdown in shipping activity due to recent attacks and military tensions.
Concerns have been raised for India, a country heavily reliant on energy shipments passing through the strait. Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian regarding the escalating situation in the region. Modi expressed deep concerns over the rising tensions, emphasizing the safety of Indian nationals, uninterrupted transit of goods and energy, and the importance of peace, stability, dialogue, and diplomacy.
Indian officials noted that this conversation marked the first direct contact between the two leaders since the conflict began. India has intensified diplomatic efforts across West Asia, with PM Modi engaging with various regional leaders and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar discussing maritime security with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The focus remains on ensuring shipping safety and India’s energy security, underscoring the commitment to peace and stability in the region.
