A News Agency

Hegseth said, “The ceasefire with Iran has not ended, and I hope Iran reaches an agreement.” He stated that Iran’s actions at this critical point, through which approximately one-fifth of global oil consumption passes, violate international maritime law and aim to restrict freedom of navigation.

Recalling that the blockade and sanctions against Iran continue, Hegseth emphasized that tensions in the region still pose a risk to the global economy.

Hegseth said that Iran carried out attacks on commercial vessels in the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, and off the coast of Bahrain, noting that two container ships were targeted and nine shots were fired.

Stating that approximately 22,500 sailors are stranded in the region with 1,550 ships, Hegseth claimed that oil facilities in Oman and the United Arab Emirates were also targeted and that attempted attacks on U.S. elements were unsuccessful.

Emphasizing that control in the Strait of Hormuz is not in Iran’s hands, Hegseth said, “The project we are implementing aims to ensure freedom of maritime traffic. We are aware that Iran is uncomfortable with this situation.”

Stressing that the blockade continues, Hegseth stated that the international community is closely monitoring developments and called on Iran to reach an agreement.