Reported from the source

Quick summary: The US Navy cannot begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz before the end of the month due to a lack of readiness, according to US Energy Secretary Chris Wright. Meanwhile, Turkey has warned against inciting civil war in Iran, and Thailand has demanded an apology from Iran following an attack on a Thai freighter in the Strait of Hormuz. Lufthansa Group has extended the suspension of its flights to Dubai until March 28.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated in an interview with CNBC that the US Navy is “simply not ready yet” to commence escorts through the Strait of Hormuz, indicating that such operations cannot begin before the end of the month. In a separate development, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, speaking at a press conference with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, issued a warning against inciting a civil war in Iran. Fidan emphasized that Turkey would not permit any plans aimed at triggering internal conflict or provoking disputes along ethnic and religious lines within Iran. Further escalating regional tensions, Thailand has demanded an apology from Iran after a Thai cargo ship was attacked and set ablaze in the Strait of Hormuz. The Thai Foreign Ministry summoned the Iranian ambassador, Nassereddin Heidari, to convey its “strongest protest” and demand an explanation. Ambassador Heidari expressed condolences and pledged to relay Thailand’s protest to Tehran. Three crew members are reported missing, while 20 others were rescued without serious injuries. Economically, the Lufthansa Group has extended the suspension of its flights to Dubai until March 28, citing significantly reduced handling capacities at Dubai’s airports due to the ongoing Iran war. This affects flights operated by Lufthansa, SWISS, ITA Airways, Austrian Airlines, and Eurowings.

Source: www.handelsblatt.com