By Cecilia Odey
Tensions in the Middle East are rising as Iran has warned it may resume military actions if a newly imposed naval blockade by the United States threatens its commercial shipping.
According to statements reported by Iranian state-affiliated outlets, the country’s military leadership views any disruption to its merchant vessels or oil tankers as a violation of an existing ceasefire.
The warning underscores growing concern over the safety of maritime trade routes in the region.
Iranian media also indicated that, in the event of a breach, Tehran could respond by targeting key global shipping lanes.
This included the potential involvement of Yemen’s Houthi forces in restricting passage through the strategically vital Bab al-Mandab Strait, a narrow corridor linking Europe and Asia via the Suez Canal.
The U.S. blockade, which began earlier this week, aimed to restrict vessels traveling to and from Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
However, transit through the Strait of Hormuz remains open, provided ships are not directly linked to Iranian ports.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced the measure following stalled diplomatic talks between Washington and Tehran held in Islamabad.
The blockade is intended to curb Iran’s ability to generate revenue from shipping and oil exports, while also addressing disputes over transit fees in the region.
Analysts warn that any escalation could have significant implications for global trade, given the region’s central role in international energy and shipping networks.
(dpa/NAN)
