Trump Intensifies Global Pressure to Secure Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions

Trump Calls for International Efforts, Warns Tehran

In a diplomatic and military escalation, US President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Washington's allies to participate in securing vital shipping lanes through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Trump told reporters at the White House that some nations are beginning to join the efforts, with some showing significant enthusiasm, though he expressed dissatisfaction with the hesitation of others. The US President underscored America's military capability to reopen the strait if necessary, noting that US forces have successfully targeted Iranian vessels involved in mine-laying operations. However, he warned that Tehran might resort to other means for mine-laying activities. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to soon announce a list of countries that have agreed to join the international coalition for securing the strait.

US Central Command Details Extensive Operations Against Iran

In a related development, Commander of US Central Command, Admiral Brad Cooper, revealed a broad military campaign aimed at undermining Iran's ability to threaten international navigation. Cooper indicated that US forces have conducted over 6,000 combat sorties since the conflict began, targeting Iranian military installations and vessels, including the destruction of more than 90 targets in an attack on military sites on Kharg Island.

Exchange of Strikes Between Israel and Iran

On another front, reports indicate that Israeli airstrikes have targeted military sites and infrastructure in Tehran and various parts of Iran, including a complex for developing offensive capabilities against satellites. In response, the Iranian Army announced drone attacks on Israeli military industry facilities. Israeli Army Spokesperson Colonel Nadav Shoshani confirmed that Israel has plans to continue the war with Iran for at least three weeks, with further contingency plans in place.

Iran Declares Readiness for a Long War

For his part, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that his country has prepared for a protracted war and possesses sufficient stockpiles of missiles and drones. In a move to consolidate leadership, the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, appointed former Revolutionary Guard commander Mohsen Rezaei as his military advisor, while retaining officials appointed by his father in their positions.

Regional Moves and International Concern

These developments coincided with discussions between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi regarding the dangerous military escalation in the region. In a related context, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz linked the return of displaced residents from southern Lebanon to ensuring the security of northern Israel. Reports also emerged of the killing of a security official from Iraq's Hezbollah Brigades in airstrikes targeting his headquarters in the Al-Qaim district.

Oscars and Focus on the Conflict

Separately, the 98th Academy Awards ceremony saw no major surprises, with expected films taking home the honors. However, global focus remains firmly on the escalating conflict, where diplomatic channels appear to be closed amid intensifying strikes and retaliatory actions.

US Casualties Rise

The US military announced on Monday that the number of American soldiers wounded in the war on Iran has risen to approximately 200, as the conflict enters its third week. US Central Command clarified that the vast majority of injuries were minor, and 180 soldiers have already returned to duty. In addition to the wounded, 13 American soldiers have lost their lives since the war began. Iranian attacks have also targeted diplomatic missions, hotels, and airports in Gulf countries.

US Drone Losses

A US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that more than 10 MQ-9 drones have been destroyed in the war. The General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper is an advanced reconnaissance and attack aircraft capable of high-altitude, long-endurance flights and sophisticated intelligence gathering, and can be armed with air-to-ground missiles.

Israel Views War as a 'Historical Turning Point'

In a notable statement, Israeli President Isaac Herzog described the war on Iran as a "historical turning point," asserting that this moment will see the disruption and cessation of the root cause of the region's endless conflicts, originating from Tehran, thereby altering the entire trajectory of the region.