Iran, Trump: "It's our turn, we're going to hit them hard". And Saudi Arabia wants to unite against the Houthis

Washington, July 30, U.S. President Donald Trump has vowed to strike back strongly against Iran following Iranian attacks in Jordan, stating, “It’s our turn, we will hit them hard.” The remarks came during a press briefing at Washington Dulles International Airport, where he addressed questions regarding ongoing tensions with Tehran. Trump also hinted at potential diplomatic progress, saying, “We’ll see if we can reach an agreement on Iran.” Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is preparing to launch an international coalition in the Red Sea aimed at countering the Houthis. According to Al Monitor, the initiative involves inviting approximately fifty countries to join. Its goal is to safeguard maritime trade routes in the region and prevent disruptions similar to those recently observed through the Strait of Hormuz. The United States continues its strict enforcement of sanctions against Iran, as reported by the U.S. Central Command (CentCom). On July 29, CentCom stated that it had diverted twenty merchant ships, rendered two inoperable, and boarded two others while they transited through the Strait of Hormuz. A statement issued by CentCom emphasized that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has repeatedly threatened and attempted to attack civilian vessels and sailors passing through the strait. It noted that the Strait of Hormuz is an internationally navigable waterway and that the IRGC lacks authority to impose restrictions on free and open maritime traffic. The escalating situation reflects broader regional instability, with Iran accused of targeting shipping lanes and Saudi Arabia seeking to bolster security measures. The proposed coalition in the Red Sea would mark a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape, potentially involving a wide array of nations. This move comes amid heightened concerns over the safety of global oil supplies, which pass through critical chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz. In response to the growing pressure, the U.S. military has maintained its stance, reinforcing its presence in the region to ensure the uninterrupted flow of commerce. The actions taken by CentCom underscore the administration's commitment to protecting American interests and allies. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains under scrutiny, particularly as Iran continues to challenge Western influence in the Middle East. International observers have noted the increasing complexity of the conflict, with multiple actors vying for control over strategic maritime corridors. While the Saudi-led coalition aims to stabilize the region, the involvement of numerous countries could lead to further complications. The success of this initiative will depend on coordination among participating states and their ability to address shared security concerns effectively. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring the stability of vital trade routes and preventing further escalation. The coming days will likely reveal whether the proposed coalition can achieve its objectives or if existing tensions will continue to intensify. For now, the world watches closely as key players navigate the delicate balance between diplomacy and military action.