Iran’s top leadership has sharply criticized the United States over rising tensions in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, saying Washington is responsible for regional instability.
Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said a “new chapter” has opened in the Strait of Hormuz, while President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that America’s naval blockade against Iran will fail.
Khamenei said a new situation is emerging in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. He said a new chapter has opened in the strategic waterway, which remains one of the world’s most important maritime routes.
Khamenei accused the United States of being the main reason for instability in the region.
Iran vows to ensure Gulf security
The Iranian Supreme Leader said Tehran will ensure the security of the Gulf region. He said Iran is prepared to confront what it sees as hostile efforts to destabilize the region.
Khamenei also said Iran would thwart the enemy’s conspiracy in the area. He claimed America is opening a new front in the region after what he described as its “shameful failure.” He said Washington’s actions are part of a wider strategy against Iran and the region.
He further said that those who spread mischief will meet a very bad end, adding that the Iranian army showed great bravery during the recent tensions. The future of the region will be dedicated to public development and service, he vowed, saying the Persian Gulf will have a bright future without America.
Khamenei remarked that the American bases in the region were not capable of even protecting themselves, adding that the US had failed to protect its allies.
He also said that Iran will protect its nuclear and missile capabilities, adding that the US desire to curb Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities will never be fulfilled. "The Iranian people will protect their nuclear and missile assets at all costs," Khamenei remarked.
Our neighbours across the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman share a common destiny, he added.
Pezeshkian says US naval blockade will fail
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also criticized the United States, saying America’s naval blockade will fail. He said sanctions or a naval blockade against Iran are against international law.
"Any attempt to impose a maritime blockade or restrictions is contrary to international law... and is doomed to fail," Pezeshkian said in a statement.
According to him, no country has the right to pressure another in international waters. He also said anti-Iranian forces have changed their strategy regarding international waters. He added that the enemy wants to increase economic pressure on the Iranian government and people.
Pezeshkian described the US blockade as an attempt to harm Iran economically while increasing instability in the region.
Tehran blames US, Israel for instability
President Pezeshkian said the US blockade is damaging regional stability. He added that American actions will not help improve regional security.
The Iranian president also accused the United States and Israel of being responsible for the ongoing instability in the Strait of Hormuz.
