Iran's IRGC Navy Announces New Strategy Amid US Tensions
Iran's Naval Command Responds to US Threats
Tehran: In response to a recent warning from President Donald Trump, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy of Iran has declared its intention to establish a "Persian Gulf order." The naval command of the IRGC stated on social media that the dynamics in the Strait of Hormuz have undergone a permanent transformation. This vital waterway, which lies between Iran and Oman, is crucial for connecting oil and gas-producing nations in the Gulf to global markets, with approximately 20% of the world's energy trade passing through it.
The IRGC Navy issued a stern message to both the US and Israel, asserting that the Strait of Hormuz would "never revert to its previous condition." They also mentioned being in the final stages of preparations for what Iranian officials are calling a “new order” in the Gulf region. This announcement follows the approval of a draft law by an Iranian parliamentary committee that proposes imposing transit fees on vessels navigating this key route. The legislation includes a toll to be paid in Iran's currency and a prohibition on transit for US and Israeli ships, along with restrictions on nations enforcing unilateral sanctions against Iran.
Trump's Ultimatum: On Sunday, Trump set a new deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning that military action could ensue if an agreement is not reached. In a social media post, he indicated that the deadline would be Tuesday at 8:00 P.M. Eastern Time, marking a new cutoff for Tehran to comply with US demands. This warning came shortly after he issued a more aggressive statement threatening extensive strikes on Iranian infrastructure. Trump declared, "Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. There will be nothing like it!!! Open the… Strait, you crazy bastards, or you’ll be living in Hell - JUST WATCH! Praise be to Allah," emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Trump has consistently warned that the US might target Iranian power facilities and other critical infrastructure if the strategically significant waterway remains closed. He reiterated that "time is running out" for Iran to take action. In interviews, he maintained his stance, stating that he would resort to military action if no deal was reached. Speaking to Axios, he remarked, "If they don’t make a deal, I am blowing up everything over there." In a separate conversation with a media outlet, he added, "If they don’t come through, if they want to keep it closed, they’re going to lose every power plant and every other plant they have in the whole country." He warned that if no action is taken by Tuesday evening, Iran would face significant losses in infrastructure.
Middle East Conflict Update: The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has now reached its 38th day. On February 28, the US and Israel conducted airstrikes on Tehran, resulting in the deaths of several high-ranking officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This prompted Iran to retaliate with strikes on US military bases and oil facilities in neighboring Gulf countries.