Forbes Calls for Sustained Pressure on Iran, Warns Against Compromising Strait of Hormuz Access

Steve Forbes has called on the Trump administration to intensify efforts against the Tehran regime while safeguarding unrestricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz as a fundamental American interest. Speaking at Freedom Fest in Las Vegas, the Forbes media chairman and former presidential candidate told Fox News Digital that maintaining open sea lanes represents a core principle of U.S. foreign policy stretching back centuries. The remarks came as American military operations against Iranian targets continued for a ninth consecutive day on Sunday.

Forbes traced the commitment to maritime freedom to the nation’s founding era, citing the War of 1812 as a historical example of American resolve on the issue. He characterized the Strait of Hormuz as an international waterway comparable to the South China Sea, requiring unfettered access for commercial vessels without tolls, restrictions, or interference. According to Forbes, these principles demand enforcement across generations or risk being surrendered entirely.

While advocating for air power as the primary tool to achieve American objectives, Forbes stopped short of ruling out ground operations. He invoked the early American engagements with Barbary pirates, which secured Mediterranean navigation rights following the First Barbary War of 1805, as precedent for when direct military action becomes necessary.

Forbes dismissed further diplomatic engagement with Tehran, instead urging the administration to sustain military pressure without pause. He specifically rejected the concept of “fake ceasefires” and expressed confidence that American and Israeli military capabilities could remove what he termed an “evil regime” from power while encouraging Iranian military elements seeking change.

The business executive also praised the Trump administration’s decision to license Patriot missile systems to Ukraine, characterizing the move as a constructive approach to resolving that conflict.