The United States on Wednesday warned that civilian ports in the Strait of Hormuz could be treated as legitimate military targets if they are used for military operations by Iran.
In a statement, the United States Military alleged that the Iranian government was using civilian port facilities along the strategic waterway to carry out activities that threaten international shipping.
“The Iranian regime is using civilian ports along the Strait of Hormuz to conduct military operations that threaten international shipping,” the statement said.
It added that civilian ports used for military purposes could lose their protected status under international law and become legitimate military targets.
The United States also urged civilians in Iran to avoid port facilities where Iranian naval forces are operating.
“Iranian dockworkers, administrative personnel, and commercial vessel crews should avoid Iranian naval vessels and military equipment,” the statement said.
The warning comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following recent confrontations between Iran, the United States and Israel.
On Tuesday, the United States said it had carried out strikes that destroyed 16 mine-laying vessels that could have been used to block the Strait of Hormuz, a vital sea lane through which a significant portion of the world’s oil and gas exports passes.
