Israel Matzav

Bahrain-based 5th fleet commander ready for war with Iran

Vice Admiral Mark Fox, the commander of the US Navy's 5th fleet, which is based in Bahrain, says that his troops are ready to confront any aggression by Iran.

He did not outline specifically how the Navy might respond to an Iranian strike or an effort to shut the entrance to the Persian Gulf, though any response would likely involve the two US aircraft carriers and other warships cruising the waters off Iran.

"We've developed very precise and lethal weapons that are very effective, and we're prepared," Fox said. "We're just ready for any contingency."

Faced with tightening Western sanctions, Iranian officials have stepped up threats to close the Strait of Hormuz if the country's oil exports are blocked. A fifth of the world's oil supply passes through the narrow waterway, which is only about 30 miles (50 kilometers) across at its narrowest point.

Iran and Oman share control of the waterway, but it is considered an international strait, meaning free passage is guaranteed.

Iran's army chief, Gen. Ataollah Salehi, early last month warned an American warship not to return to the Gulf shortly after the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis and another vessel left. Another carrier, the USS Abraham Lincoln, entered the Gulf without incident on Jan. 22.

Fox acknowledged that Iran's military is "capable of striking a blow" against American forces in the Gulf, particularly using unconventional means such as small attack boats or mines laid along shipping lanes.

"We're not bulletproof. There are people that can take a swipe at us," Fox said.

But he added that he has reminded officers under his command that they "have a right and an obligation of self defense" if attacked.

It's really beginning to sound like war here. Stay tuned.

Labels: Bahrain, Iranian nuclear threat, US 5th fleet

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 11:02 PM