Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran

Tehran, Apr 25: Iran has warned the United States of a “decisive response” if Washington continues what it described as a blockade in the Gulf region, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, amid continuing tensions despite a fragile ceasefire.

According to Iranian state media, the warning was issued by the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, Iran’s top operational military command coordinating between the national army and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

In a statement, the command said Iran’s armed forces were prepared to respond if the US persisted with what it called blockade, piracy and maritime aggression in regional waters.

It also claimed Iranian forces were at their highest level of readiness and were closely monitoring movements in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

The headquarters said Iran remained prepared to maintain control over the vital waterway and respond strongly to any renewed aggression.

The warning comes amid reports of continued US naval enforcement operations linked to a blockade of Iranian ports.

According to the US Central Command, several vessels attempting to enter or exit Iranian ports have reportedly been redirected as part of the operations.

US officials have also warned that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains under heightened risk, even as limited transit continues.

Reports said US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth stated that vessels were still moving through the waterway, though under conditions of increased danger.

The Pentagon has reportedly authorised strong countermeasures against potential threats, including the laying of naval mines, while maintaining strict monitoring of vessels linked to Iranian ports.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, handling a significant share of global oil exports, and any disruption there has implications for international energy markets.