Iran has declared it will not withdraw from the Strait of Hormuz until its rights are fully protected, signaling further escalation in its standoff with the United States.
The statement was made by Mohsen Rezaei, a senior military advisor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, in an interview with state media Press TV. He emphasised that Iran views Hormuz as a strategic asset and will use its position to counter what it describes as unlawful sanctions and maritime restrictions imposed by the US.
Rezaei stated that Iran is prepared for a prolonged conflict if necessary and insisted that any future agreements must prioritise economic interests and be approached with greater caution. He also questioned US claims regarding the weakening of Iran’s naval capabilities, pointing to continued tensions in the region.
The remarks come in response to the recent US naval blockade targeting Iranian-linked shipping, further intensifying geopolitical uncertainty in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
