Iran Forces Open Strait to Europe, Blocks US Ships in Hormuz Divide

Iran implemented a divide-and-rule approach by blocking American naval vessels while allowing European ships to pass.

“The US military has searched on a second day for a pilot shot down over a remote area in Iran, while US President Donald Trump again threatened Tehran over his deadline to open the Strait of Hormuz: “Time is running out"”

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The Iranian Defense Ministry began interdicting US and allied military vessels, blocking 10 American ships including the USS Arleigh Burke and USS Cole.

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Tehran simultaneously allowed European ships to transit unmolested, with France passing without any problem.

Iranian state media framed this as a temporary measure after seven weeks of illegal presence of U.S. ships.

CNN analyzed the move as smart and irritating, challenging Trump's argument US is indispensable for security.

Trump demanded Iran reopen the Strait within 48 hours or face all Hell unleashed on the country.

He posted dramatic videos promising to obliterate Iran's oil and gas facilities.

CBS News

The Guardian noted Trump's threat came as forces raced to find a missing pilot after an F-15 was shot down.

Iranian Defense Ministry responded by rejecting Trump's threat as helpless, nervous, unbalanced and stupid.

Gen. Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi warned the gates of hell will open for you.

The US and Israel began targeting Irans energy infrastructure.

“• Search for service member: Sources say US troops are still searching for a crew member from an F-15 fighter jet shot down over Iran”

CNN

Iranian forces kept pressing offensives, firing missiles at Israeli targets.

Two American warplanes were shot down; one pilot rescued, one missing.

Israel confirmed it struck a petrochemical complex in Mahshahr.

The war has killed thousands and shows no sign of slowing.