A top Iranian official warned that Tehran would further seal the Strait of Hormuz and block other strategic passages if the U.S. continues its naval blockade on Iranian ports. This escalation could significantly impact the global economy and energy markets.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil supply, and any disruption could lead to significant price spikes and economic instability worldwide. Iran's threat highlights the escalating tensions in the region and the potential for wider conflict.
A senior official from Iran's Supreme National Security Council has issued a stark warning, stating that Iran will further seal the Strait of Hormuz and block other strategic passages if the United States continues its naval blockade on Tehran's ports. Mohammad Baqer Zolqadr, secretary of the SNSC and a veteran Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander, indicated that such an escalation could impose significant costs on the global economy, energy markets, and U.S. taxpayers.
This warning follows previous statements by Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who identified U.S. and Israeli actions as the primary drivers of insecurity in the region. Araghchi cited alleged violations of the Islamabad MoU, ongoing military operations, and naval blockades against Iranian commercial shipping as key contributors to regional instability. He emphasized that Iran's military and diplomatic responses are defensive measures, conducted within the framework of international law to safeguard national security and interests, and that responsibility for any escalation lies with "aggressor forces."
Araghchi also stressed Iran's commitment to establishing mechanisms with Oman to manage traffic in the Strait of Hormuz and cautioned third parties against obstructing this process. During separate calls with his Indian and Turkish counterparts, S Jaishankar and Hakan Fidan respectively, Araghchi urged regional neighbors and the international community to avoid actions that could widen the conflict and to hold "aggressor parties" accountable. Both Indian and Turkish officials expressed support for dialogue and diplomatic solutions to de-escalate tensions.