US says intercepted attacks on 3 warships in Hormuz; Trump calls for Iran deal

The United States military confirmed on Thursday that its naval forces engaged in self-defense maneuvers following coordinated attacks on three American warships transiting the Strait of Hormuz. This critical maritime chokepoint remains a volatile corridor for global trade, with tensions escalating as Tehran reviews a fresh proposal to de-escalate regional hostilities. For merchant vessels operating in the Persian Gulf, these incidents highlight the urgent need for heightened situational awareness and adherence to established maritime security protocols near Iranian territorial waters.

These security developments necessitate strict compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, specifically Part A, Section 9, regarding the Ship Security Plan (SSP). Vessels transiting high-risk areas must ensure that their security levels are adjusted according to guidance from the Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa (MSCHOA) and regional naval authorities. Compliance departments must verify that all onboard security equipment, including Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) systems and vessel hardening measures, meet the latest requirements under SOLAS Chapter XI-2 to mitigate risks during transit.

Masters and navigating officers must immediately review their bridge watchkeeping procedures and security contingency plans when operating near the Strait of Hormuz. These officers are required to maintain constant communication with regional maritime security centers and ensure that all crew members are briefed on emergency muster drills. Proactive monitoring of VHF channels and adherence to the latest naval guidance is essential for ensuring the safety of the vessel and its crew during these periods of heightened geopolitical instability.