Peace Through Strength – Community Driven – Membership Supported
Category: Global News Watch
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On June 5, 2023, service members and civilians in France honored D-Day veterans during the 79th anniversary ceremony at Pointe du Hoc. This ceremony underscored the heroic efforts of the 2nd and 5th Ranger Battalions who scaled the cliffs at Normandy, France, in 1944. The Defense Department recognizes these heroes for their selfless service and sacrifice in the pursuit of global peace and security.
Operation Neptune: The U.S. Navy on D-Day
The naval component of Operation Overlord, known as Operation Neptune, began in the early hours of June 6, 1944. This operation marked the start of the Allied invasion of German-occupied France and played a vital role in breaking Hitler’s Festung Europa (Fortress Europe).
The Allied Invasion Fleet
Under the command of Admiral Sir Bertram H. Ramsay, the Allied invasion fleet was divided into Western (American) and Eastern (British) Task Forces. They embarked upon the massive assault, the naval part of which was executed under the command of Rear Admiral Alan G. Kirk, Task Force 122.
The Bombardment and The Challenges
In opening the invasion, a naval bombardment within the American sectors was coordinated with the arrival of Eighth Air Force bombers. Despite the remarkable firepower of the U.S. Navy, German forces did not suffer significant casualties during the bombardment.
The Role of Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs)
The NCDUs, combined with U.S. Army engineers, formed gap assault teams (GATs) tasked with detonating mines and clearing obstacles on the landing beaches. Despite the intense enemy fire and rapidly rising tide, the gap assault teams on Omaha managed to clear five of the 16 assigned gaps.
Heroism at Omaha Beach
The success of the invasion seemed most dubious at Omaha Beach, where the American GIs remained pinned down, unable to advance. The situation began to turn around when a handful of British and American destroyers began pounding the enemy gun positions. The Allied troops were finally able to move forward, engage, and destroy the enemy.
The Significance of D-Day
The successful invasion of northern France on D-Day marked a significant moment in U.S. naval history. Rear Admiral Kirk, reflecting on the day, stated, “Our greatest asset was the resourcefulness of the American sailor.”
—Guy J. Nasuti, NHHC Histories and Archives Division, May 2019
On June 5th, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III stated that the United States will persist in collaborating with regional allies to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific, amid ongoing challenges from China. This statement was made in Singapore during the esteemed Shangri-La Dialogue, a paramount congregation of defense ministers and experts from the region. Austin’s remarks reflect the U.S. military’s primary focus on the Indo-Pacific, with China being viewed as the pacing challenge.
The Strategic Budget and Investment in Indo-Pacific
The Pentagon’s budget request, according to Austin, is tied directly to their strategic plans, emphasizing their continued investment in the Indo-Pacific region. This includes the deployment of the United States’ most advanced and competent weapon systems. The Defense Department has allocated over $9 billion towards the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, along with additional investments into region-specific research such as hypersonics, deterrence of cyber threats, and more.
Austin Expresses Concern Over China’s Actions
Despite General Li Shangfu, China’s Defense Minister’s statements at the event, Austin emphasized that observing China’s actions is more consequential than listening to their words. Austin further voiced his concern about China’s “irresponsible behavior” in the South China Sea, pointing to instances of close intercepts and coercive behavior.
Significantly, he noted recent incidents involving a Chinese ship’s dangerous proximity to the USS Chung Hoon and a Canadian vessel in the Taiwan Strait, and the interception of a U.S. Air Force reconnaissance aircraft by a Chinese aircraft in international airspace. Austin called on leadership to regulate such conduct to prevent potential accidents that could escalate into uncontrollable situations.
The Need for Clear Communication
Drawing parallels with the April 2001 P-3 incident, where a Chinese pilot collided with a Navy P-3 aircraft leading to a diplomatic crisis, Austin stressed the importance of clear communication to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Importance of Navigational Freedom
Highlighting the importance of navigational freedom, Austin stressed that these operations the United States and other nations engage in are perfectly legal. He indicated that China should be interested in this freedom as well, considering they also use the international commons.
The Diplomatic Hurdle
Austin revealed that Chinese defense leaders have declined invitations to meet, stating U.S. sanctions against Li Shangfu as the reason. Austin noted that despite personal sanctions in Russia, he could, if he wanted, communicate with the Russian minister of defense.
Key Takeaways
The U.S. maintains its commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region, with significant budget allocations to ensure strategic readiness.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Austin expresses concern over China’s recent actions in the South China Sea and calls for responsible conduct.
Austin underscores the importance of clear communication to prevent incidents that could escalate tensions.
Austin emphasizes the significance of navigational freedom and points out China’s dependence on the same.
Despite U.S. sanctions against Li Shangfu, Austin notes the potential for diplomatic communication, drawing a comparison to his situation with Russia.
Introduction: In a recent incident that highlights the increasing assertiveness of Beijing in the South China Sea, a Chinese warship narrowly avoided colliding with the USS Chung-Hoon, an American destroyer according to press reports.
🚨 Video: A Chinese warship came within 150 yards of hitting American destroyer USS Chung-Hoon.
Embarked journalists captured the moment on video & witnessed the near collision.
"The fact this was announced over the radio prior to doing it clearly indicated it was intentional." pic.twitter.com/cuksOabO15
As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we recognize the significance of such incidents and the need to address the challenges facing our naval forces. This article delves into the debate surrounding the shipbuilding of US naval vessels and explores the arguments for and against allowing them to be built elsewhere. By examining this issue, we aim to inform and inspire our readers, reinforcing the importance of a strong and self-sufficient US Navy.
Summary: This article discusses a near-collision between a Chinese warship and the USS Chung-Hoon, emphasizing the aggressive military maneuvers of Beijing in the South China Sea. The incident occurred during a joint Canada-US mission sailing through the Taiwan Strait. Such confrontations underscore the critical role of the US Navy and the necessity to address the challenges faced by American naval forces. The article further explores the ongoing debate about where US naval ships should be built, offering insights from both sides of the argument.
The Incident in the South China Sea: During a joint Canada-US mission, a Chinese warship came within 150 yards of the USS Chung-Hoon, nearly causing a collision. The encounter exemplifies the increasingly provocative actions of Beijing in the South China Sea.
The Importance of a Strong US Navy: A robust US Navy is vital to ensuring national security and protecting American interests worldwide. The ability to project power, maintain freedom of navigation, and respond to global threats relies on a strong and capable naval force.
The Debate: Building US Naval Ships Elsewhere: There is an ongoing debate regarding whether US naval ships should be built exclusively in the United States or if the law should be changed to allow for construction in other locations. Proponents argue that building ships abroad could reduce costs and increase efficiency, while opponents emphasize the need to preserve domestic shipbuilding capabilities and ensure national security.
Balancing Costs and National Security: Advocates for building naval ships overseas argue that cost savings and access to specialized expertise could enhance the fleet’s capabilities. However, opponents emphasize the strategic importance of maintaining domestic shipbuilding capacity, which supports jobs, protects sensitive technologies, and ensures national sovereignty.
Key Takeaways:
The incident between the Chinese warship and the USS Chung-Hoon underscores the need for a strong US Navy capable of protecting American interests and maintaining global stability. The debate surrounding the location of shipbuilding for US naval vessels raises important considerations about costs, efficiency, national security, and domestic job creation. Americans for a Stronger Navy advocates for the preservation of domestic shipbuilding capabilities to ensure national sovereignty and maintain the strength of the US Navy.
Conclusion: The incident in the South China Sea serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of a strong and self-sufficient US Navy. Americans for a Stronger Navy believes that preserving domestic shipbuilding capabilities is essential to safeguarding national security, supporting American jobs, and protecting sensitive technologies. We urge our readers to join us in our mission and support a robust US Navy that can effectively respond to global challenges, uphold freedom of navigation, and protect American interests at sea and beyond. Together, we can ensure a safer and more prosperous future for our nation.
China has been conducting aggressive cyber operations to steal sensitive data and disrupt critical communications infrastructure of the United States and its allies.
Recently, Chinese-backed hackers breached technology systems belonging to the U.S. Navy, targeting its assets on Guam, a strategic island in the Pacific.
This blog post will explain what we know about this hack, why it matters for America’s security and peace through strength, and what we can do to protect ourselves from such threats.
Americans for a Stronger Navy is a community-driven and membership-supported organization that advocates for policies and legislation that support the Navy’s ability to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing global security environment.
We believe that a strong and capable U.S. Navy is essential for protecting America’s interests and ensuring peace through strength. Join us today and help us promote a stronger navy for a safer world.
Summary:
The hack was carried out by a group called Volt Typhoon, which used legitimate credentials and small-office routers to gain access to the systems.
The hackers aimed to develop capabilities that could disrupt communications between the United States and Asia in a crisis. The Navy confirmed that it was impacted by the hack, but did not reveal the extent of the damage.
The United States and its allies issued a joint advisory on how to detect and prevent similar intrusions.
In this blog post, we will answer the following questions:
Who is behind the hack? A brief overview of the group’s history, motives, and techniques.
What was affected by the hack? A description of the infrastructure and sectors targeted by the hack, especially the Navy’s assets on Guam and their importance for regional security.
What’s being done to prevent or respond to the hack? A summary of the responses and actions taken by the United States and its allies, including Microsoft, the Five Eyes intelligence sharing organization, and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.
Answers
Who is behind the hack? The hack was carried out by a group called Volt Typhoon, which is believed to be a state-sponsored actor based in China that typically focuses on espionage and information gathering.
The group has been active since at least 2021 and has targeted critical infrastructure organizations in Guam and elsewhere in the United States. Volt Typhoon uses legitimate credentials and small-office routers to gain access to the systems, disguising their origin and activity.
They also use custom versions of open-source tools to establish a command and control channel over proxy. The Chinese government has denied any involvement in the hack, calling it a “collective disinformation campaign” by the United States and its allies.
What was affected by the hack? The hack targeted key infrastructure like communications, electric and gas utilities, manufacturing, transportation, construction, maritime, government, information technology, and education sectors. The hackers aimed to develop capabilities that could disrupt critical communications infrastructure between the United States and Asia region during future crises.
One of the main targets was the U.S. Navy’s infrastructure on Guam, a strategic island in the Pacific that hosts several military installations, including B-52 bombers and submarines. Guam is a vital part of the U.S. military’s strategy in the region, as it provides access to resources and markets, protects sea lanes of communication, and supports humanitarian aid in times of crisis.
What’s being done to prevent or respond to the hack?
Microsoft was the first to report on the hack and identify Volt Typhoon as the perpetrator.
Microsoft contacted all groups affected by the hack and provided guidance on how to detect and mitigate this malicious activity
The cybersecurity agencies of the Five Eyes member nations (the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand) issued a joint advisory on how to prevent or respond to similar intrusions.
One of the agencies involved in issuing the advisory was the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), which also published a statement highlighting China’s continued use of sophisticated means to target America’s critical infrastructure. CISA director Jen Easterly said in a statement:
“For years, China has conducted aggressive cyber operations to steal intellectual property and sensitive data from organizations around the globe. Today’s advisory highlights China’s continued use of sophisticated means to target our nation’s critical infrastructure, and it gives network defenders important insights into how to detect and mitigate this malicious activity.” – CISA director Jen Easterly
The advisory contains a hunting guide for the tactics, techniques, and procedures used by Volt Typhoon.
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) also published a statement highlighting China’s continued use of sophisticated means to target America’s critical infrastructure. CISA urged network defenders to implement best practices such as patching vulnerabilities, enforcing strong passwords, monitoring network activity, and reporting incidents.
Key takeaways:
China is pursuing cyber warfare as a means of challenging America’s interests and influence in the Asia-Pacific region.
The hack exposed vulnerabilities in America’s communications systems and naval infrastructure, which could have serious consequences in a conflict scenario.
The United States needs to invest more in strengthening its cyber defenses and resilience, as well as enhancing its naval capabilities and readiness.
Conclusion:
The hack by Volt Typhoon is a wake-up call for America and its allies to take China’s cyber threats seriously.
A strong and capable U.S. Navy is essential for protecting America’s security and ensuring peace through strength. Americans for a Stronger Navy is a community-driven and membership-supported organization that advocates for policies and legislation that support the Navy’s ability to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing global security environment.
Join us today and help us promote a stronger navy for a safer world.
In an era of rapidly evolving digital landscapes, cybersecurity is not only a private concern but a national defense priority. The American infrastructure recently faced an audacious cyber attack, with the U.S. Navy being one of the primary targets. How we respond to these invasions is critical to the future of our nation’s security and the strength of our Navy. It is imperative, now more than ever, for us to comprehend these challenges and stand united to support and protect our nation’s defenders.
Summary
This article delves into a recent cyber attack where Chinese-backed hackers targeted the U.S. Navy’s technology systems, seeking to disrupt critical communications. It focuses on the facts surrounding this breach, who is behind it, the affected areas, and the necessary steps being taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
Chinese Cyberattack: A Wake-up Call
Reports confirmed that hackers supported by China had successfully breached American infrastructure, including vital technology systems belonging to the U.S. Navy. The hackers’ aim was to disrupt crucial communication lines between the United States and Asia during potential crises. This was first reported by technology giant Microsoft, which attributed the hacking operation to a China-based group, Volt Typhoon.
Who is Pulling the Strings?
Microsoft identified the perpetrators as Volt Typhoon with “moderate confidence.” This group is a state-sponsored actor based in China that specializes in espionage and information gathering and has been active since at least 2021. The hackers employed legitimate credentials and small-office routers to infiltrate the systems, an approach known as “living off the land”. This audacious attack led to the breach of the U.S. Navy infrastructure on Guam, home to several crucial military installations.
The Scope of the Impact
The full extent of the breach is currently unclear, but the targets included several sectors such as communication, manufacturing, utility, transportation, construction, maritime, government, IT, and education. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro confirmed that the Navy was impacted by the hack, without disclosing further details. However, he expressed that China’s initiation of such a cyber attack was “no surprise”.
Key Takeaways
This attack is not an isolated incident, but rather part of a larger pattern of aggressive cyber operations by China, aiming to pilfer intellectual property and sensitive data. It is a wake-up call that highlights the persistent threat our nation’s critical infrastructure faces and provides insights into the sophisticated methods used by these malicious actors.
Taking Measures Against the Threat
In response to this attack, Microsoft has reached out to all groups affected. Additionally, cybersecurity agencies from the Five Eyes member nations have issued a joint advisory on the hack, outlining several preventive steps against such “living off the land” style intrusions.
Conclusion
As we sail through these uncharted waters of digital threats, it is crucial to stand united in support of the strength and security of our Navy. We must stay informed, vigilant, and proactive in understanding the nuances of these cyber threats, their implications, and the protective measures necessary to safeguard our nation’s assets. As a society, we can contribute to this mission by educating ourselves and raising awareness about the significance of cybersecurity in national defense, thus bolstering the resiliency of our Navy, and by extension, our nation.
In a rapidly escalating situation in the Persian Gulf, Iran has seized its third oil tanker in just 19 days, intensifying tensions in the region according to news reports.
As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we stand firm in our mission to ensure a robust and secure naval presence. The recent seizure underscores the crucial role of a stronger Navy in safeguarding our national interests and protecting global maritime security. Join us as we explore the key takeaways from this development and understand why supporting the Navy is vital for averting threats and maintaining stability.
Summary:
The recent seizure of an Iranian oil tanker by Iran marks the third incident within a short span, heightening tensions in the Persian Gulf.
This alarming situation highlights the necessity of a stronger Navy to protect our interests and ensure maritime security.
The U.S. Navy 5th Fleet had termed Iran’s actions a violation of international law and has called on Tehran to immediately release the seized tankers according to news reports.
“Iran’s continued harassment of vessels and interference with navigational rights in regional waters are a threat to maritime security and the global economy,” it said, adding this was at least the fifth commercial vessel seized by the Islamic state in two years.
Americans for a Stronger Navy is dedicated to informing and inspiring our readers, particularly average Americans, to rally behind our mission. By bolstering the Navy’s capabilities, we can actively contribute to a safer and more secure world.
Key Takeaways:
Heightened tensions:
With the seizure of three oil tankers in a short period, tensions in the Persian Gulf have reached a critical point. This development emphasizes the need for a strong naval presence to deter potential threats and ensure the safety of maritime trade routes.
Upholding national interests: The Navy plays a pivotal role in protecting our national interests, including safeguarding access to vital resources and maintaining regional stability. By supporting a stronger Navy, we can actively contribute to the security of the United States and its allies.
Protecting global maritime security:
Maritime security is essential for the global economy, as a significant portion of international trade relies on secure shipping routes.
A robust Navy is crucial in countering threats and ensuring the smooth flow of goods across the seas.
Conclusion:
The recent seizure of oil tankers by Iran highlights the urgency of our mission as Americans for a Stronger Navy. By raising awareness and inspiring engagement, we can actively support the Navy’s efforts to protect our national interests and promote global maritime security. Let us come together as average Americans to rally behind a stronger Navy, ensuring a safer and more prosperous future for ourselves and generations to come. Together, we can make a difference.
TROMSØ, Norway (May 4, 2023) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) transits the harbor in Tromsø, Norway, prior to the start of exercise Formidable Shield 2023, May 4, 2023. Formidable Shield is a biennial integrated air and missile defense (IAMD) exercise involving a series of live-fire events against subsonic, supersonic, and ballistic targets, incorporating multiple Allied ships, aircraft, and ground forces working across battlespaces to deliver effects. (U.S. Navy photo)
Introduction:
Charting a course towards a stronger Navy, we proudly present the remarkable achievements of the guided missile destroyer USS Oscar Austin in Exercise Formidable Shield 2023. As we delve into the captivating events that unfolded in the chilly harbor of Tromsø, Norway, we invite you to join us on this journey, discovering the key features and benefits of this exercise and how it aligns with the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy.
Summary:
Witness the resolute spirit of the USS Oscar Austin as it sails through the frigid waters of Tromsø, Norway, participating in Exercise Formidable Shield 2023. This biennial integrated air and missile defense exercise serves as a testament to the cutting-edge capabilities and unwavering dedication of the U.S. Navy. Engaging in live-fire events against subsonic, supersonic, and ballistic targets, the USS Oscar Austin demonstrates its readiness and strengthens our nation’s defense.
Key Takeaways
Strengthening Defense Capabilities:
Experience the dynamic display of the USS Oscar Austin’s advanced air and missile defense capabilities during Exercise Formidable Shield 2023, showcasing the United States Navy’s commitment to maintaining a robust defense system.
Discover the power of international collaboration as the USS Oscar Austin joins forces with allied navies, fostering global partnerships and reinforcing collective security interests.
Technological Brilliance:
Explore the cutting-edge technological advancements showcased by the USS Oscar Austin in Exercise Formidable Shield, highlighting the Navy’s continuous pursuit of innovation and staying at the forefront of naval warfare.
Conclusion:
As we conclude our captivating journey through Exercise Formidable Shield 2023, we are reminded of the crucial role a stronger Navy plays in safeguarding our nation’s security and Peace Through Strength. The accomplishments of the USS Oscar Austin reflect the unwavering dedication, professionalism, and bravery of our Navy personnel. It is our collective responsibility as Americans to rally behind our Navy, supporting its mission of protecting our shores and projecting strength globally. Together, let us build a stronger Navy for a safer future.
Americans for a Stronger Navy Proudly Announces the Addition of Two Destroyer Ships in Southern Spain:
The United States and Spain have announced an agreement to increase the number of destroyers based in southern Spain from four to six.
The destroyers are used for various missions, including ballistic missile defense and anti-aircraft warfare.
The United States and Spain have announced an agreement to strengthen their bilateral strategic relationship by increasing the number of destroyers based in southern Spain from four to six.
Strengthening the U.S.-Spain Strategic Relationship
This commitment follows the pledge made by President Joe Biden and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at a meeting on the margins of the NATO Summit in Madrid.
The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is proud to be part of the Navy community and to support this effort.
Summary:
The United States has announced that it will add two destroyer ships to its fleet based in southern Spain, bringing the total to six. These ships are used for various missions, including ballistic missile defense and anti-aircraft warfare.
The agreement to increase the number of destroyers is part of a broader effort to strengthen the strategic relationship between the United States and Spain.
Key Takeaways:
The agreement is part of a broader effort to strengthen the strategic relationship between the United States and Spain.
The agreement is part of a broader effort to strengthen the strategic relationship between the United States and Spain.
The U.S. destroyers based at the Rota naval base in Cadiz are the only ones with a permanent home port in Europe. The ships are positioned to make daily operations in various missions, including ballistic missile defence and anti-aircraft warfare, the U.S. embassy said in a statement.
Conclusion:
Proud to Support the U.S. Navy Community Americans for a Stronger Navy: Informing and Inspiring Readers to Rally Around the Cause.
The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is proud to support the United States and Spain in their effort to strengthen their strategic relationship. The addition of two destroyer ships to the fleet based in southern Spain is a significant accomplishment and demonstrates the commitment of both countries to global security.
We encourage our readers to learn more about the mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization and to support our efforts to inform and inspire Americans to rally around the importance of a strong Navy.
Super Hornet from the “Blue Diamonds” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146 makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68)
Introduction:
The Navy plays a crucial role in maintaining global stability and PeaceTroughStrengh. The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is committed to informing and inspiring our readers to support the Navy’s mission.
Recently, the Navy achieved a significant accomplishment with the Super Hornet from the “Blue Diamonds” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146 makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in the South China Sea, which highlights the importance of having a strong Navy. In this article, we will explore this accomplishment and how it fits in with the mission of our organization.
Summary:
The Navy’s recent success in the South China Sea featuring Super Hornet from the “Blue Diamonds” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146 as it makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) demonstrates the importance of having a strong Navy in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Through routine operations and partnerships with allies and partners, the Navy maintains stability and ensures our country’s security. This article will delve into the key features and benefits of this accomplishment and how it aligns with the mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization.
Key Takeaways:
The Navy’s routine operations in the South China Sea are crucial in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
The feature of the Super Hornet from the “Blue Diamonds” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146 makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68).
The Navy works closely with allies and partners to maintain stability and ensure our country’s security.
Having a strong Navy is essential in maintaining global stability and keeping America safe.
Conclusion:
The Navy’s recent success in the South China Sea underscores the importance of having a strong Navy. As a member of the Navy community, we are proud to support this mission and encourage others to do the same. The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is committed to informing and inspiring our readers to support the Navy’s mission. Join us in supporting a strong Navy to ensure our country’s security and maintain global stability.
This satellite image from Planet Labs PBC shows the seized oil tanker Niovi off the coast of Bandar Abbas, Iran, Saturday, May 6, 2023. Satellite images analyzed Sunday, May 7, 2023, by The Associated Press showed the location of two oil tankers recently seized by Iran amid tensions with the West. (Planet Labs PBC via AP)
Introduction:
The latest ship seizure by Iran near the strategic Strait of Hormuz has once again escalated tensions with the West over its nuclear program. Satellite images recently analyzed by The Associated Press show two oil tankers, the Advantage Sweet and the Niovi, anchored just south of Bandar Abbas near a naval base in Iran’s Hormozgan province. As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we believe in maintaining the strength of our naval forces to ensure peace and stability in the region.
Iran Seizes Two Oil Tankers in the Strait of Hormuz
The photos from Planet Labs PBC showed the Advantage Sweet and the Niovi anchored near a naval base in the port city in Iran’s Hormozgan province Saturday. Their capture represents just the latest ship seizure conducted by Iran amid tensions with the West over its rapidly advancing nuclear program, though it appears the two ships may have been taken for different reasons.
Latest Ship Seizures Escalate Tensions with the West
The recent seizure of two oil tankers by Iran highlights the increasing tensions with the West over its nuclear program. The Advantage Sweet carried Kuwaiti crude oil for American energy firm Chevron Corp. of San Ramon, California, at the time of its capture. Meanwhile, the Niovi was seized by Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard as it left a dry dock in Dubai. Its cargo was suspected to have been sold to firms in China without permission.
Details of the Seized Oil Tankers and Their Cargo
Iran seized the Marshall Islands-flagged Advantage Sweet, staffed by 23 Indians and one Russian, on April 27 as it traveled in the Gulf of Oman. Tehran claimed the vessel had struck another ship, though tracking data for the Advantage Sweet showed no erratic behavior on its trip. The Niovi, a Panama-flagged tanker, was not carrying any cargo, but data from S&P Global Market Intelligence seen by the AP showed the Niovi in July 2020 received oil from a ship known then as the Oman Pride.
Americans for a Stronger Navy: Promoting Peace Through Strength
As tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz, it is more important than ever to ensure the strength and readiness of our naval forces. Americans for a Stronger Navy stands with the Navy community to ensure that we continue to promote peace through strength. Join us in supporting our mission to maintain a strong Navy, and to help inspire and engage Americans to rally behind our cause.
Conclusion
The latest seizure of two oil tankers by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz highlights the need for a strong Navy to ensure peace and stability in the region. As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we stand with the Navy community to promote peace through strength. We urge all Americans to join us in supporting our mission to maintain a strong Navy, and to help inspire and engage others to rally behind our cause.
