By Sabiu Abdullahi
The United States has said it is not seeking a confrontation with Iran over tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, but made it clear it would respond forcefully if provoked.
Speaking on Tuesday, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth stated that any attack by Iran on vessels operating in the strategic waterway would attract a “devastating” reaction from the US.
“We’re not looking for a fight. But Iran also cannot be allowed to block innocent countries and their goods from an international waterway,” Hegseth told reporters.
He added, “If you attack American troops or innocent commercial shipping, you will face overwhelming and devastating American firepower.”
In a related development, General Dan Caine, a top US military official, said American forces are fully prepared to return to large-scale combat operations if directed.
Caine, who spoke with journalists, stressed that Washington’s current posture should not be interpreted as weakness.
According to him, US Central Command and other military units remain on standby for possible action.
“No adversary should mistake our current restraint with a lack of resolve,” he said.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global shipping route, and rising tensions in the area have continued to draw international attention.
