Iran Warns of Retaliation Amid Hormuz Tensions

Senior Iranian officials have issued strong warnings of retaliation, signalling a sharp escalation in tensions over the Strait of Hormuz.

Mohsen Rezaei, a senior military adviser and former Revolutionary Guard commander, said Iran still holds “major untouched levers” to counter any attempt to blockade the vital waterway. Writing on social media, he dismissed external threats as “imaginary plans” and insisted Tehran would not be pressured.

Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf delivered a blunt message directed at Donald Trump, warning that any confrontation would be met with force. “If you fight, we will fight,” he said after returning from recent talks.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps later stated that the Strait of Hormuz remains under Iran’s “full control” and is open to non-military shipping. However, it warned that any military vessels entering the area would face a “forceful response.”

Meanwhile, conflicting claims have emerged over recent naval activity. The United States said two warships had passed through the strait ahead of planned mine-clearing operations during the latest round of talks in Pakistan, marking a first since the conflict began. Iran, however, rejected the claim.

The developments highlight growing uncertainty around one of the world’s most critical النفط shipping routes, raising concerns over potential disruption to global energy supplies.