An extremely dangerous situation. Iranian leaders are threatening to cut off the supply of oil shipped through this narrow channel. The slightest wrong move and a conflagaration could quickly follow.
The Iranian navy is increasing its presence at the Strait of Hormuz, sparking concerns that Tehran is showcasing its ability to block international access to the world’s most important oil transit point.
“We are aware of the increase in Iranian naval operations within the Arabian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman,” U.S. Central Command spokesman Capt. Bill Urban said Wednesday. “We are monitoring it closely, and will continue to work with our partners to ensure freedom of navigation and free flow of commerce in international waterways.”
Iran’s navy has been assembling its warships at the northern opening of the strategic waterway. The move comes as tensions have ratcheted up between Tehran and Washington over the Trump administration’s decision to terminate its nuclear deal and levy more sanctions against Iran.
Iranian leaders have threatened to shut down the strait if the country is blocked from exporting crude oil.
More @ US military watching closely as Iranian ships gather at key oil shipping route
