Vance warns Iran over Strait of Hormuz: If they fire on ships, we will respond

US Vice President JD Vance, in a statement regarding the renewed tensions with Iran, indicated that Washington would respond more severely if there are attacks on commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Vance called on Iran not to open fire on ships passing through the strait. Vance said, "If you stop firing on ships, we will lift the blockade, but if you fire on ships, we will respond, and that response will be much harsher than anything seen so far."

Vance also reiterated his rhetoric that Iran's nuclear program and conventional military capacity are being "destroyed." Arguing that there are elements within the Tehran administration that want to turn a new page in relations with the US, Vance said that this is why President Donald Trump is keeping the door to negotiations open.

EMPHASIS ON THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ

Claiming that Iran began firing on commercial ships again 24 hours ago, Vance said, "They behaved for about a week, but then they started firing again. So the deal is very simple; if they fire on ships, we will tear them apart."

Vance stated that the Strait of Hormuz will be kept open, noting that this means the continued flow of oil and gas to the American people. He reminded that Trump has also emphasized that the passage is critical for global energy shipments.

It was reported that on July 7, at least three commercial vessels, including tankers belonging to Qatar and Saudi Arabia, were hit by unidentified projectiles and drones in the Strait of Hormuz.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that in response to these attacks, it had carried out airstrikes on more than 80 locations in Iran, targeting radar systems, missile batteries, and more than 60 small boats belonging to the Revolutionary Guards.