Iran Threatens To Block Persian Gulf And Red Sea Trade Over US Naval Blockade

Iran's top military commander issued a stern warning that if the US continues its illegal maritime blockade, Iran will not allow any exports or imports in the Persian Gulf, Sea of Oman, or Red Sea.

Abdollahi stated such US actions would constitute a violation of the two-week ceasefire agreement.

Al Jazeera

The threat marked the first time Iran officially extended its blockade warning beyond the Strait of Hormuz to include the Red Sea.

The US blockade began on April 13 and aims to stop Iranian oil exports.

Shipping data showed the blockade made little difference to Strait of Hormuz traffic on the first full day.

The blockade is estimated to cost Iran approximately $435 million a day in economic damage.

Iran's threat to block maritime trade extended to the Red Sea.

Analysts warned that if the US blockade persists, Iran's allies could impede passage through Bab el-Mandeb.

Ash-Sharq

The strait is only about 30 kilometers wide at its narrowest point.

The combined closure of the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb would force ships to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope.

The expanded blockade threat came as Pakistan prepared to send a delegation to Tehran.

Mediators were pushing to extend the two-week ceasefire that began on April 8.

Pakistan played a key role in brokering talks between the US and Iran.

The US and Israel announced they would launch direct negotiations with Lebanon.

Hezbollah condemned the Lebanese government for negotiating with Israel.

The escalating maritime blockade added new uncertainty to the diplomatic landscape.