A Trump ally has suggested using nuclear weapons to reopen the Strait of Hormuz
Former Speaker of the US House of Representatives Newt Gingrich has proposed using nuclear charges to open the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran is blocking amid the conflict with the US and Israel, reports Mirror.co.uk
In his post, he noted that instead of a prolonged standoff over the narrow waterway, a new channel could be created. “A dozen thermonuclear explosions and you’ll have a waterway wider than the Panama Canal, deeper than the Suez Canal and protected from Iranian attacks,” Gingrich wrote.
His post contained a link to material that the X platform described in a note as satirical. However, the politician himself did not clarify that his words were a joke.
The situation around the strait has escalated following the launch of Operation Epic Fury, carried out by the US and Israel against Iran. In response, Iran has tightened its control over the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supplies passes, laying mines and attacking foreign vessels.
According to the US Navy, at least 20 commercial vessels have been attacked in the strait since the start of the conflict, resulting in seven deaths, with four others still missing.
Iranian leader Mojtaba Khamenei has stated his intention to use the blockade of the strait as a means of exerting pressure. According to him, this will keep the enemy in a vulnerable position.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated the possibility of further military action in response to Iran’s actions. He is also considering the option of escorting tankers with US warships.
The US has called on its allies, notably the UK, France, Japan and South Korea, to join in protecting shipping in the region.
World leaders have also agreed to release over 400 million barrels of oil reserves to mitigate the effects of the energy crisis.
