MUSCAT: Speaking on Thursday, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said American forces are prepared to act if Iran “chooses the wrong option,” underscoring Washington’s readiness to respond to any further escalation.
He also confirmed that the United States will continue enforcing a maritime blockade on Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, now in its fourth day, with no immediate timeline for its conclusion.
“Let me be clear, this blockade applies to all ships, regardless of nationality, heading into or from Iranian ports,” Hegseth said. “For as long as it takes, we will maintain this blockade.”
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