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Iran threatens to halt Gulf trade if US naval blockade continues

Iran threatens to halt Gulf trade if US naval blockade continues
Iran has issued a warning that it may escalate tensions with the United States by blocking major international shipping routes if a US naval blockade targeting its vessels continues. The statement, broadcast on state television, came from Ali Abdollahi, commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, which oversees Iran’s armed forces operations.

Abdollahi said that continued US actions creating insecurity for Iranian commercial ships and oil tankers would be interpreted as a step toward violating the current ceasefire. In response, Iran’s military would halt all exports and imports across key waterways, including the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea. These routes are critical for global energy supplies and international trade.

The warning follows a US blockade of Iranian ports that began earlier in the week. The US military stated that no vessels successfully crossed the blockade in its first 24 hours, with several merchant ships reportedly turning back in the Gulf of Oman. The developments raise concerns about disruptions to global shipping, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital oil transit chokepoints.

The current ceasefire between Iran and the United States was announced on April 8 after nearly six weeks of conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel. Despite the fragile truce, tensions remain high, with both sides signaling readiness for further action.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump indicated that diplomatic efforts could resume soon, suggesting talks might restart within days, though Iran has not confirmed this. In an earlier interview with Fox Business, Trump expressed optimism that shipping activity in the Strait of Hormuz was recovering and said the conflict could be nearing resolution, while also emphasizing that negotiations are ongoing.

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