UKMTO Warns Of Ongoing Critical Security Threat In Strait Of Hormuz

MOSCOW, May 4 (Bernama-Sputnik/RIA Novosti) -- The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) on Monday warned that the maritime security threat level in the Strait of Hormuz remains critical due to ongoing military operations in the region, reported Sputnik/RIA Novosti.

Mariners should expect an increased naval presence, tighter security measures, possible VHF radio hails, and congestion near anchorage areas, the statement added.

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that the United States will begin an operation to remove ships stuck in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday morning (Middle East time). According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), US military support for this operation will include destroyers, aircraft, and 15,000 troops.

At the same time, Axios (US digital media company) reported that Project Freedom does not require US Navy ships to escort commercial vessels.

-- BERNAMA-SPUTNIK/RIA NOVOSTI