"Iran strongly welcomes the US deployment of forces to escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz and awaits their presence in the region," said Alimohammad Naini, spokesperson for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), on 6/3.
Naini warned US officials that before making any decisions, they should "remember the 1987 fire on the supertanker Bridgeton and recent targeted oil tankers." The Bridgeton incident occurred during the final phase of the Iran-Iraq War, when the US launched an operation to escort oil tankers through the Persian Gulf.
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The Bridgeton, despite being protected by US warships, was hit by a naval mine near Farsi island, suspected to have been laid by the Iranian navy. The explosion caused a large dent in the hull but resulted in no casualties. The Bridgeton continued to move through the strait but had to reduce speed. Meanwhile, US warships positioned themselves behind the Bridgeton, allowing the large oil tanker to lead the way through the potentially mined area. The event became a propaganda victory for Iran and a symbol of the risks associated with US military involvement to protect oil transport in the Persian Gulf.
The Middle East is embroiled in conflict after US and Israeli airstrikes on 28/2 killed multiple senior Iranian leaders. In retaliation, the IRGC attacked Israeli territory and Arab nations where US forces are present, subsequently closing the Strait of Hormuz.
Shipping data indicates hundreds of vessels are currently stranded outside the Strait of Hormuz, unable to access regional ports. Several ships have been hit while attempting to navigate this waterway.
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US President Donald Trump stated on 3/3 that the US Navy could escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz if necessary. However, experts suggest Washington lacks sufficient resources in the region to undertake such an operation.
The Strait of Hormuz, at its narrowest point nearly 34 km wide and bordering southern Iran, is a vital chokepoint for global oil trade. Approximately 20% of the world's crude oil and liquefied natural gas is transported from oil powers in the Persian Gulf through this strait for export worldwide.
As Tam (According to AFP, Reuters)
