The US Deters Iran from Targeting Ships in the Strait of Hormuz
Display of Strength Deters Further Targeting
Overt Operator
October 05, 2023
A display of strength by the United States appears to have effectively deterred Iran from further targeting ships in the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman.
Following multiple incidents of naval aggression earlier this year, the US deployed F-35 and F-16 fighter jets to the Persian Gulf, along with a naval destroyer and an amphibious assault group consisting of 2,500 Marines.
The increased presence of these surface vessels, combined with the US air power, has had a significant impact on Iranian officials.
Lieutenant General Alexus Grynkewich, the commander of US Air Forces Central Command, affirmed that the US deployment has successfully deterred Iran from taking any actions against maritime shipping.
Speaking to the Defense Writers Group in Washington, he stated, "It has had good effects."
The decision to bolster US capabilities in the region came after Iran's attempt to seize two commercial tankers near Oman in July.
This incident followed Iran's successful seizure of two oil tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz a few months earlier. The US Navy reports that Iran has seized or harassed nearly 20 ships in the region over the past two years.
Contrary to US claims, Iran's state-run media has insisted that their actions are aimed at combating illegal fuel smuggling. They argue that some of the vessels were in Iran's territorial waters.
However, the US remains firm in its assertion that Iran's actions have been aggressive and disruptive to international shipping.
Despite the success of the current US presence, Lieutenant General Grynkewich cautioned that the deterrent effect may be short-lived.
The temporary nature of the increased US presence raises concerns about how Iran will react if the US changes its posture. As some forces are scheduled to return home, there is uncertainty about whether Iran will resume its aggressive activities.