Ongoing Conflict: Iran's Control Over Hormuz and U.S. Rescue Mission Details
Current Situation in Hormuz
The conflict between the U.S.-Israel and Iran has now extended over 38 days, during which Iran has maintained complete control over the Hormuz Strait. Currently, more than 3,000 vessels from around the globe are stranded in this strategic waterway. Iran has also rejected a ceasefire agreement.
Trump Discusses U.S. Rescue Mission
In a press conference at the White House, President Donald Trump elaborated on a U.S. rescue operation conducted in Iran. He stated that 200 individuals were involved in rescuing a soldier, showcasing remarkable bravery from the military. Trump emphasized that this operation was unprecedented in history, describing it as one of the most challenging rescues ever undertaken. He revealed that 21 aircraft were deployed for this mission.
Details of the Rescue Operation
President Trump mentioned that several aircraft were used as a diversion during the search operation, with missions conducted at seven different locations. He added that the second rescue operation involved 155 aircraft, including four bombers, 64 fighter jets, 48 refueling tankers, and 13 rescue planes. Trump noted that during the rescue, the U.S. military destroyed its own aircraft to prevent the enemy from examining sensitive equipment, including anti-aircraft systems.
Trump's Warning on National Security
In his statement, Trump asserted that the U.S. possesses the capability to obliterate an entire nation overnight, warning that such a night could come at any time, even as soon as the next night. He also indicated that he would demand a media organization reveal the identity of the individual who leaked information regarding the Iranian rescue mission, threatening jail time for the reporter involved.
Iran Rejects Ceasefire Proposal
Iran has dismissed the latest ceasefire proposal, insisting on a permanent end to the conflict. This announcement came just as the deadline set by President Trump for Iran to open the Hormuz Strait approached. Trump warned Iran to either comply with the deadline or prepare for attacks on power plants and bridges. Reports indicate that Iran has communicated its response to the U.S. through Pakistan. Mojtaba Fardousi Pour, head of the Iranian diplomatic mission in Cairo, stated that they will only accept a ceasefire if guaranteed against future attacks. He also mentioned that Iranian and Omani officials are working on a mechanism to manage this vital shipping route.
Casualties from Airstrikes in Iran
On Monday, Israel and the U.S. launched extensive airstrikes on Iran, resulting in over 25 fatalities. In retaliation, Iran fired missiles at Israel and neighboring Gulf states. As the deadline for Iran to open the Hormuz Strait approached, mediators proposed a new ceasefire. The airstrikes targeted Sharif University of Technology in Tehran, damaging buildings and a nearby natural gas distribution center. However, it remains unclear which specific parts of the university were hit. Due to the ongoing conflict, all educational institutions across the country have shifted to online classes, leaving the university campus deserted. Notably, this university has faced sanctions from multiple countries due to its involvement in military activities related to Iran's ballistic missile program.