Iran warns of escalation if US naval blockade continues

Tehran threatens to disrupt maritime traffic in the Red Sea and other key passages, claims U.S. is violating ceasefire by blockading Strait of Hormuz.

By World Israel News Staff

Iran has issued a warning to the United States over its ongoing naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, calling the move a violation of a temporary two-week ceasefire set to expire next week and threatening potential retaliation.

The blockade — imposed by the U.S. Navy — has effectively halted maritime trade to and from Iran, according to American officials, intensifying economic pressure on Tehran and raising concerns about global shipping disruptions.

In a statement, Major General Ali Abdollahi, commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), warned that the blockade could trigger a broader escalation.

“If the aggressor and terrorist U.S. seeks to continue its illegal action of imposing a naval blockade in the region and to create insecurity for Iran’s commercial vessels and oil tankers, this action by the U.S. will constitute a prelude to a violation of the ceasefire,” Abdollahi said.

He added that Iran could respond by restricting maritime activity across additional key waterways in the region.

“The powerful armed forces of Iran will not allow any exports or imports to continue in the area of the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea,” he said.

Such a move would significantly worsen the ongoing shipping crisis and likely trigger sharp increases in global energy prices and the cost of essential goods.

In recent days, U.S. leadership has sent mixed signals regarding the trajectory of the conflict. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance have both expressed optimism about the possibility of reaching a longer-term agreement with Iran.

Speaking to Fox News on Wednesday, Trump said the war is “close to over” and suggested a potential breakthrough could come by the end of the week.

At the same time, diplomatic efforts appear to remain in play. Although a previous round of talks between Washington and Tehran collapsed last week, both sides are said to be leaving the door open for further negotiations.

Pakistani officials have indicated that a second round of talks could take place in Islamabad as early as next week.