Iran Attacks Tankers, US and Europe Mobilize Fleets
Shipping in the Strait of Hormuz has been suspended. Hundreds of ships are unwilling to risk passing through this crucial route for the global economy. A real battle for control over the strait may erupt in the near future. All parties have announced that they are mobilizing military forces to the region.
Iran's Position
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed that Iran completely controls the strait and has banned the passage of oil, trade, and fishing vessels.
US Position
Trump stated that "when necessary," the US Navy will begin escorting tankers through the strait, and this will be done "as soon as possible." Trump did not explain how exactly this would be implemented or which forces would be used. Additionally, Washington is prepared to take on the insurance risks for the ships.
The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has led to the shutdown of the world's second-largest oil field - the Rumaila Oil Field in Iraq.
It has been reported that Asian countries are already feeling the impact of fuel supply issues. Thailand said its oil reserves are only enough to last two months. Sri Lanka's reserves are expected to last 30 days. Vietnam said it is ready to activate its reserve oil.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic predicted that after the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a disaster would occur in Europe, "the situation is extremely abnormal. If this continues, all of us in Europe will face real hell."
Original: toutiao.com/article/1858729823504412/
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