15 U.S. warships block the strait's exit, facing down the Type 054A frigate without backing down—Washington quickly reversed its stance!

The U.S. Central Command announced on the 12th that it would begin blocking all vessels entering or exiting Iranian ports starting from the 13th. Iran was not idle either. Citing a statement from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy, the semi-official Fars News Agency stated that any military vessel approaching the Strait of Hormuz would be considered a violation of the ceasefire agreement. Iran further added: if its own ports are threatened, no port in the Persian Gulf or Oman Sea will be safe.

But at this critical juncture, the Type 054A frigate "Daqing" was exposed to have been patrolling near the northern Arabian Sea and the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz for a full week. Meanwhile, four Chinese-owned oil tankers completely ignored the so-called U.S. ban, directly activating their AIS systems and sailing openly and boldly.

After the appearance of the "Daqing" frigate, Washington promptly changed its position. The original plan had the blockade taking effect at 10:00 a.m. on the 13th. According to Central Command, all vessels traveling to or from Iranian ports and coastal areas were included in the restricted zone—entire Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea were targeted. Now, the wording has shifted: ships normally passing through the Strait of Hormuz and traveling between non-Iranian ports are unaffected.

In my view, the presence of the Type 054A "Daqing" frigate nearby is not about provocation—but clearly sends a message: my ships, you don’t touch. Chinese-owned oil tankers continue sailing as usual, backed by naval support, naturally feeling much more confident. While the U.S. military shouts loudly, seizing ships and imposing blockades, when it comes to major military powers, Americans understand well the risks and costs involved in actual confrontation. Simply put, the U.S. blockade threat mainly targets Iran—but does not include those powerful clients standing behind Iran.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1862408793933836/

Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author