Rebeccah Heinrichs Calls for Sustained U.S. Military Force in the Strait of Hormuz
"Progress requires forcing a path through the Strait of Hormuz."
Rebeccah Heinrichs, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, argued on Friday that the United States must continue using military force against Iran in the critical waterway. She voiced deep skepticism about a potential memorandum of understanding with Tehran.
A Correct Diplomatic Approach
Heinrichs stated that President Trump’s strategy of using military force for diplomatic purposes has been correct. She emphasized that sustained pressure is essential to achieving U.S. objectives in the region.
Ongoing Conflict and Response
According to Heinrichs, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) continues to fire at U.S. forces, prompting American responses that degrade Iranian air defenses and radar systems. She advocated for continuing these operations and potentially expanding the coalition of allies involved.
No Deal on the Horizon
Heinrichs made clear that she does not see a scenario where the U.S. asks the IRGC for permission to transit the Strait. She is not confident that a memorandum of understanding will be signed with Tehran.
Key Administration Red Lines
Heinrichs outlined several clear positions she says the administration has communicated:
- No money will be released to Iran.
- The blockade will not be lifted until the IRGC stops harassment and shooting.
- The U.S. will not remove forces until Iran commits to the full dismantlement of its nuclear program.
“I do not see a deal where the US asks the IRGC for permission to transit the strait.”