16, April 2026
Iran’s military has issued a stark warning to the US, stating it will block trade through the Red Sea, Gulf, and Sea of Oman if the naval blockade on Iranian ports continues.
In a statement carried by Iranian state television, Ali Abdollahi, head of the military’s central command centre, emphasized that the US blockade is a threat to Iran’s national sovereignty and interests.
*Key Points:*
– The US imposed the blockade on Monday after failed talks in Pakistan aimed at ending the war.
– Abdollahi warned that if the US continues the blockade, Iran will take decisive action to defend itself.
– Maritime tracking data shows some ships have crossed the Strait of Hormuz despite the blockade.
– Iran claims shipping has continued from its southern ports, with vessels setting sail for various global destinations.
*Iran’s Stance:*
“The powerful armed forces of the Islamic republic will not allow any exports or imports to continue in the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea,” Abdollahi stated, adding that Iran will “act decisively to defend its national sovereignty and its interests
