Iran’s parliament speaker has warned the United States over escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, saying Tehran will act if restrictions on its shipping continue.
According to Tasnim News Agency, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf made the remarks during a televised address.
“Dear people of Iran, the Strait of Hormuz is under the control of the Islamic Republic.”
He said Iranian forces confronted US activity in the waterway and viewed mine-clearing efforts as a breach of the ceasefire. “We dealt decisively with America’s efforts to clear mines, considering it a violation of the ceasefire, and we advanced to the point of conflict, but the enemy retreated.”
“In Islamabad, I told the American delegation that if their minesweeper moves even a little further from its position, we will definitely shoot it. They asked for 15 minutes to give the order to turn back, and they did.”
“If there is traffic in the Strait today, control of the Strait is in our hands.”
“The Americans have been declaring a blockade for several days now, this is a clumsy and ignorant decision.”
“If the US does not lift the blockade, traffic in the Strait of Hormuz will definitely be restricted.”