Iran warns of Strait of Hormuz closure as regional tensions escalate

Iran has warned that continued US pressure in regional waters could force the closure of the Strait of

TEHRAN: Iran has warned that continued US pressure in regional waters could force the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and other strategic maritime routes, as military and diplomatic tensions across the Middle East continue to intensify.

Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said continued US actions in the region could have serious consequences for global shipping and energy supplies. According to Iranian state media, he warned that any further escalation could affect not only the Strait of Hormuz but also other key maritime chokepoints.

He said such developments would have a significant impact on the global economy, international energy markets and trade, while also increasing political pressure within the United States.

Meanwhile, Kuwait announced that its air defence systems intercepted drones launched from Iran early Saturday. The Kuwaiti military said the drones were successfully engaged before causing damage and confirmed that no casualties or destruction had been reported. Residents were advised to follow official safety instructions as authorities monitored the situation.

In Yemen, the Houthi movement denied reports that it planned to charge commercial vessels for passing through the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The group’s Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center said no decision had been taken to impose transit fees and stressed that safe passage through the waterway remained free.

The Houthis also urged shipping companies not to make payments to unauthorised individuals claiming to represent Yemeni authorities. The clarification came after reports suggested the group was considering introducing charges following its declaration of a maritime blockade targeting Saudi Arabia.

Separately, the Houthis claimed that eight Saudi oil tankers had been forced to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope instead of using the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The group said the diversions were a result of its maritime blockade, although the claim has not been independently verified.

Maritime security concerns also increased after a commercial tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile near the coast of Oman. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said the projectile damaged the vessel’s engine room, leaving it unable to manoeuvre. No casualties or environmental damage were reported, while an investigation into the incident is underway.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran is working with Oman to establish practical mechanisms for managing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. During a telephone conversation with British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, Araghchi said outside interference would only worsen the regional situation and complicate efforts to maintain maritime stability.

The British foreign secretary reiterated London’s support for diplomacy and said the United Kingdom was not involved in any war with Iran. He stressed that dialogue remained the best path to reducing tensions in the region.

Meanwhile, reports from US media suggested that Washington and Israel are considering possible strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure. According to the reports, discussions have focused on targeting energy facilities if diplomatic efforts fail. However, no final decision has been officially announced.

Iranian officials responded by warning that the country has prepared plans to retaliate against any future military action targeting its territory. They said any attack would receive a strong response against strategic interests in the region.