Persian Gulf, SAEDNEWS, Dec. 22: A nuclear-powered US submarine has passed through the Strait of Hormuz and into the Persian Gulf in an apparent threat to Iran, while an Israeli sub reportedly made a similar excursion into the Red Sea.
The USS Georgia (SSGN-729) is an Ohio-class nuclear-powered sub carrying, not ballistic nuclear warheads, but up to 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles – or as many as 66 special operatives, the Navy pointed out on Monday, announcing the boat’s transit into the “Arabian Gulf,” as the US calls the body of water.
The Georgia was escorted by the guided missile cruisers USS Port Royal (CG 73) and USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), and made the transit on Sunday, the Navy announced a day later. It was only the second such acknowledgment in eight years.
Following the announcement, Israeli public broadcaster Kan reported on Monday evening that one of Israel’s submarines transited the Suez Canal last week, with Egypt’s approval. However, the Kan report cited “Arab intelligence sources” while the Israel Defense Forces officially declined to comment (Source: Russia Today).
IRI Foreign Minister M. J. Zarif: Collective Efforts Are Necessary for Security in Persian Gulf
