Iran Plans Persian Gulf Exclusion Zone, Threatens US Warships

Rezaei also reissued dual economic and military threats, declaring, "Economic warfare will be met by a maritime exclusion zone across the Persian Gulf to the blockade perimeter." Iranian state media reported that the country fired the Qassem Basir missile at U.S. warships near the Strait of Hormuz, though the U.S. military confirmed its vessels evaded the attack.

These developments occur amid a cycle of escalating tensions, with U.S. forces having previously struck three Iranian oil tankers in response to earlier Iranian attacks. Shipping data indicates a significant decrease in traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy supplies.

Meanwhile, Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon killed at least 12 people, further complicating efforts to de-escalate the wider regional conflict. President Donald Trump commented on social media that oil prices would drop significantly if the U.S. wins the war with Iran.