Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei on Saturday warned that Tehran’s navy is prepared to confront forces from the United States and Israel, amid escalating tensions over the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
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In a series of statements, Khamenei said Iran’s military, including its naval forces, stood ready to inflict “bitter defeats” on its adversaries, while asserting that the country’s armed forces were defending national sovereignty across land and sea.
The remarks came as Iran signalled tighter control over the vital oil shipping lane, warning that maritime traffic could again face restrictions. Shipping sources reported that some vessels attempting to transit the strait came under fire, while others received radio warnings from Iranian naval forces prohibiting passage.
The situation has raised fresh uncertainty around global energy supplies, as the waterway is a critical route for oil and gas shipments. Earlier indications of resumed traffic were reversed after Tehran reinstated stricter controls, citing alleged violations and “piracy” by US forces.
United States Central Command confirmed that American forces are enforcing a maritime blockade of Iran but did not directly address Tehran’s latest actions.
US President Donald Trump said Washington was engaged in “very good conversations” with Iran, while warning that the ceasefire could collapse if a broader agreement is not reached before its expiration.
The conflict, which began on February 28 following US-Israeli strikes, has disrupted regional stability, driven up energy prices, and spread to neighbouring areas, including Lebanon.
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said no date had been set for the next round of talks, stressing that a framework agreement must first be reached.
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, including mediation attempts involving Pakistan, no breakthrough has yet been achieved. However, officials from Tehran indicated that a preliminary agreement could still be possible in the coming days.
Meanwhile, the crisis continues to impact global markets, with hundreds of vessels and thousands of seafarers reportedly stranded in the Gulf awaiting safe passage through the strait.
