Key facts
- Iran's new security chief, Mohsen Rezaei, warned that neighbours joining US economic efforts against Tehran would be considered enemies.
- Rezaei threatened to target the interests of any neighbour that participates in the US "economic war".
- He also stated Iran would strike US economic interests if sanctions continue.
- Donald Trump has intensified efforts to isolate Iran's economy and claimed control over the Strait of Hormuz.
- The UAE has suspended trade and financial transactions with Iran.
- France and Saudi Arabia are set to discuss alternative oil shipping routes to the Strait of Hormuz.
Mohsen Rezaei, the newly appointed head of Iran's supreme national security council, has issued a stern warning to neighbouring countries, stating that any nation joining the United States' economic pressure campaign against Tehran would be considered an "enemy" and face targeted strikes on their interests. Rezaei, a former commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, also threatened to attack US economic interests if sanctions persist, indicating Iran possesses further leverage beyond targeting military bases.
This escalation follows President Donald Trump's renewed efforts to isolate Iran's economy, threatening severe consequences for countries engaging with Tehran. The US president has also controversially claimed control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping route, even suggesting it be declared US territory. The conflict, which has lasted nearly six months, has seen a ceasefire agreement collapse, leaving Iran in control of the strait before the conflict. Prior to the conflict, the strait was responsible for one-fifth of global oil supplies.
In response to US pressure, the United Arab Emirates announced it was suspending all trade and financial transactions with Iran. Meanwhile, France and Saudi Arabia are preparing to discuss alternative routes to the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to bypass the waterway and mitigate potential disruptions. Proposals include increasing trade through Omani ports, expanding pipelines, and developing new rail links. A joint taskforce between France and Saudi Arabia is set to meet to identify strategic projects and secure financing for these alternative energy and logistics connections.