IRGC warns UK of retaliation as US maintains naval blockade on Iran

An IRGC spokesperson, speaking to Iranian state media, warned that countries providing logistical or military support to the United

TEHRAN: Tensions between Iran and the United States have escalated further after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned that any country assisting Washington in military operations against Tehran could become a legitimate target, while the US confirmed its naval blockade on Iran remains fully operational.

An IRGC spokesperson, speaking to Iranian state media, warned that countries providing logistical or military support to the United States—including the United Kingdom—would face retaliation. The official alleged that US B-1 bombers had recently used British bases during strikes on Iran, claiming any nation involved in such operations would be treated as a direct participant in the conflict.

The warning came as reports emerged that US President Donald Trump has temporarily suspended plans for additional strikes on Iran after nearly two weeks of continuous military operations. According to US media, the decision was influenced by concerns over dwindling missile defence stockpiles, the risk of wider regional escalation and the desire to allow more room for diplomatic efforts.

Despite the pause in airstrikes, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said its naval blockade against Iran remains in force. US forces reported intercepting several commercial vessels suspected of attempting to breach the blockade, redirecting multiple ships, disabling one vessel that ignored repeated warnings and carrying out verification inspections on others before allowing them to continue their voyages.

US officials said contingency plans remain in place should military operations resume, underscoring that Washington is maintaining pressure on Tehran while keeping diplomatic options open. Meanwhile, Iran’s latest warning has added to growing concerns that the confrontation could draw more regional and international actors into the crisis.