In an official statement, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) called on Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to conduct the announced exercise in a safe and professional manner and to avoid creating any unnecessary risk to freedom of navigation and international maritime traffic.
CENTCOM emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway and a vital trade corridor that guarantees the economic prosperity of the region. On average, about 100 commercial ships pass through the strait daily.
The statement said that the United States recognizes Iran’s right to operate professionally in international airspace and waters, but any unsafe or unprofessional behavior near U.S. forces, regional partners, or commercial vessels could increase the risk of conflict, escalating tensions, and regional instability.
CENTCOM warned that it would ensure the safety of US personnel on ships and aircraft in the Middle East and would not tolerate unsafe actions by the Revolutionary Guards.
These actions include flying over US military ships engaged in aerial operations, flying armed or low-altitude flights over US military equipment with unknown intentions, approaching speedboats at high speeds on a collision course with US vessels, and pointing weapons at US forces.
The statement concludes by emphasizing that the United States military has the most trained and lethal force in the world and will continue to operate with the highest level of professionalism and adherence to international norms; the Revolutionary Guards should act in the same manner.
