Iran's Revolutionary Guards spokesperson Alimohammad Naini publicly invited U.S. President Donald Trump to deploy U.S. Navy vessels to escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. Naini's statement, reported by Iranian state media, came after Trump indicated the U.S. Navy could begin such escorts if necessary. The challenge underscores escalating tensions in the region following U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran. Nine vessels have been attacked since the strikes began, disrupting vital shipping lanes.

Naini also referenced the 1987 Bridgeton supertanker incident, urging the U.S. to remember past incidents when considering naval deployments. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, with any escalation threatening energy markets.