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US Vows 'Hard Hitting' Against Iran to Ensure Free Passage in Strait of Hormuz
US Emphasizes 'Hard Hitting' on Iran and Allied Cooperation
President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. will continue its "very hard" pressure on Iran to ensure free commercial passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump confirmed that Kharg Island was attacked over the weekend, indicating ongoing operations. He emphasized that other nations must cooperate to prevent Iran's attempts to control the strait, noting that some countries have already expressed willingness to participate. He specifically mentioned that allies like South Korea should also play a role in protecting their vessels in relation to Iran.
Significance of the Strait of Hormuz and Military Response Options
Former US Central Command (CENTCOM) Deputy Commander, Vice Admiral Robert Harward, highlighted the critical importance of commercial traffic in the Strait of Hormuz for everyone and underscored the necessity of allied cooperation. He pointed to the need for extensive surveillance of the Iranian coastline, from which cruise missiles and drones can be launched. Former US Naval CENTCOM Commander Vice Admiral Mark Fox explained the challenges of mine detection and clearance due to the strait's narrow geography, emphasizing the need to bolster ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) capabilities to counter Iran's military. He argued that Iran has attacked all its neighbors, and it is time for a global coalition to confront this.
Iran's Claim to Control and Long-Term Solutions
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi asserted that Iran has complete control over the Strait of Hormuz and that its military decides which nations' vessels are allowed safe passage. This demonstrates Iran's intention to reinforce its control over commercial traffic through the strait. In response, Admiral Harward stated that Iran has controlled the strait for decades and that addressing the problem requires not only short-term solutions but also long-term strategies. He affirmed that the United States will use all available means, including military options, to ensure free passage through the strait.
*Source: YouTube: Fox News (2026-03-17)*
