11.   The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz arrived in the Gulf Sunday, a day after Iran launched major naval maneuvers in the strategic waterway.

12.   The capability could be used to defend islands that Iran claims in the strategic waterway, he said.

13.   The claim came after Iran accused U.S. battle ships and reconnaissance planes of spying on its war games in the strategic waterway.

14.   The Iranians, who oppose the presence of U.S. and other foreign forces in the strategic waterway, want a regional force to protect it.

15.   Taiwan and China have expressed interest in investing in the strategic waterway when Panama takes control.

16.   The move angered France, Britain and Israel, who feared the strategic waterway could be cut off.