Tehran Threatens to Disrupt Shipping Across Wider Region

Iran has threatened to extend disruption to shipping beyond the Strait of Hormuz if the US naval blockade continues, according to a statement by the operational headquarters of the Iranian armed forces.

Major General Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi said that if the blockade creates uncertainty for Iranian commercial vessels and oil tankers, Tehran would regard it as a violation of the ceasefire. Such a move, he added, could prompt further action.

In a statement carried by the semi-official Tasnim news agency, Abdollahi said Iran’s armed forces would not allow the continuation of exports or imports in the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman or the Red Sea. He warned of potential disruption to maritime traffic across the wider region.

Tehran says it is responding to a US blockade of its ports, which it views as a security threat to its commercial activities.

(theguardian, bak)