Iran Threatens Red Sea Shipping as US Naval Blockade Continues
Iran's armed forces threatened to block ships in the Persian Gulf and Red Sea if the US continues its naval blockade of Iranian ports. The warning came after six merchant vessels turned around and returned to Iranian ports following direction from US forces.
Iran's military issued a stark warning that it would retaliate against shipping in three key waterways if the US maintains its naval blockade. The threat covers the Persian Gulf, Sea of Oman, and Red Sea - some of the world's most important shipping routes.
The escalation follows President Trump's announcement of "major combat operations" against Iran on February 28, involving joint US-Israeli strikes. Since then, the US has been blocking Iranian commercial ships and oil tankers from leaving port.
US forces have already turned away at least six merchant vessels, forcing them back to Iranian ports. Ship tracking data shows Iran-linked vessels changing course to avoid the blockade.
Iran warned it would "create insecurity" for ships if the US continues targeting Iranian commercial vessels. Trump claims the conflict is "close to over" and says peace talks with Iran could resume within two days.
The threatened waterways are critical for global trade. The Persian Gulf handles about 20% of worldwide oil shipments, while the Red Sea connects Asian manufacturers to European and American markets.
These shipping lanes carry about 20% of the world's oil supply. If Iran blocks them, gas prices could spike globally. The Red Sea is also a major route for cargo ships bringing goods to Europe and America.
Watch for Iran's response if the US blockade continues, and potential peace talks Trump says could start within two days.
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