President Donald Trump announced a new military policy toward Iran on Wednesday, stating that the United States will target Iranian infrastructure in response to attacks on shipping. Under the directive, the U.S. military is authorized to destroy one bridge or power plant within Iran for every vessel fired upon in the Strait of Hormuz.
The announcement follows an increase in maritime tension in the region. U.S. officials recently identified a third American service member killed in an attack attributed to Iranian-linked forces. In a related diplomatic development, Senator Marco Rubio briefed Asian leaders, stating that Iran’s activities in the Strait of Hormuz establish a precedent that could affect international maritime law and security.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway for global energy supplies, with approximately one-fifth of the world's oil consumption passing through the passage daily. Iranian officials have previously asserted their right to defend their territorial waters, while the U.S. maintains that it is acting to ensure the freedom of navigation in international channels.