Iran has warned that it may shut down key international maritime trade routes, including the Red Sea, if what it describes as continued U.S. naval blockades at its ports persist.

In a statement broadcast on state television, Ali Abdollahi, head of the Central Command Centre of Iran’s armed forces, said the country is prepared to take decisive action. “The powerful armed forces of the Islamic Republic will not allow any import or export activities through the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea,” he stated.

Iran views the ongoing U.S. naval presence near its ports as a violation of ceasefire conditions, according to Abdollahi. He added that Tehran is ready to take “final measures” to safeguard its national sovereignty and strategic interests.

The warning raises concerns over potential disruptions to global shipping routes, as the Red Sea and surrounding waterways are critical corridors for international trade and energy supplies.

Source: Al Jazeera