US Senator Lindsey Graham has urged President Donald Trump to escalate pressure on Iran, specifically advocating for the targeting of Kharg Island. This call for increased military and economic action comes as tensions flared once more in the critical Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping artery.
Graham Demands Control of Strait
In a statement issued on Saturday, Senator Graham asserted, "Control the strait. Continue the blockade. Put Kharg Island in the crosshairs." He characterized Iran's recent actions as a significant provocation, referencing what he described as a "brazen IRGC-led attack on international shipping" and Iran's declaration of control over the Strait.
Graham emphasized the necessity for the United States and its allies to demonstrate undisputed control over the waterway, free from Iranian interference. He also voiced strong support for the ongoing blockade of Iranian ports, hailing it as "brilliantly executed" and an effective means of applying "maximum pressure."
Iran Shuts Hormuz, Fires on Vessels
The latest escalation saw Iran reverse its earlier decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, instead firing upon vessels attempting passage. This move was reportedly in retaliation for the US continuing its blockade of Iranian ports.
Iran's Revolutionary Guard Navy declared the strait would remain closed until the US lifts its blockade, issuing a stern warning: "no vessel should make any movement from its anchorage in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, and approaching the Strait of Hormuz will be considered as cooperation with the enemy" and subsequently targeted. Earlier, Iran's joint military command had stated that "control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state... under strict management and control of the armed forces."
Global Impact and Diplomatic Fallout
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that Revolutionary Guard gunboats opened fire on a tanker, and an unknown projectile struck a container vessel, causing damage. India's foreign ministry summoned Iran's ambassador to address a "serious incident" involving two India-flagged merchant ships being fired upon, particularly after Iran had initially allowed several India-bound vessels to pass.
This renewed conflict threatens to exacerbate the global energy crisis, as approximately one-fifth of the world's oil transits through the Strait of Hormuz. The current standoff follows a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran, which is now in its eighth week and is set to expire by Wednesday. US Central Command reported that American forces have turned back 23 ships to Iran since the blockade commenced earlier in the week.