US forces ready to resume full-scale combat operations, General Caine says

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, US General Dan Caine, has stated that American armed forces remain in full readiness and are capable of resuming large-scale combat operations “at any moment.”

Speaking at the Pentagon, Caine emphasised that US actions in the region constitute a blockade of Iran’s coastline and ports, but do not extend to the Strait of Hormuz.

“In addition to this blockade, the joint force, through operations and activities in other areas of responsibility, like the Pacific area of responsibility under the command of Admiral Paparro, will actively pursue any Iranian-flagged vessel or any vessel attempting to provide material support to Iran. This includes dark fleet vessels carrying Iranian oil,” he said.

Caine added that in each case, the US Navy issues warnings, typically delivered over the radio from personnel aboard destroyers.

“Do not attempt to breach the blockade. Vessels will be boarded for interdiction and seizure transiting to or from Iranian ports. Turn around or prepare to be boarded. If you do not comply with this blockade, we will use force,” he stressed.

Caine also noted that as of this morning, US Central Command had not been forced to board any vessels.

By Jeyhun Aghazada