Iran threatens wider trade disruption as US intensifies military strikes
Iran has threatened to block additional regional trade routes as the United States stepped up military operations, deepening a confrontation that has already disrupted global energy markets.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until Washington halted what it described as “acts of aggression,” warning that other oil and gas export routes across the Gulf could also be targeted.
The threat came after the US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed it carried out another round of strikes on Iranian military positions on Wednesday, following overnight attacks. The military said it also intercepted two vessels attempting to breach its recently reinstated blockade of Iranian ports.
According to CENTCOM, the latest 90-minute operation targeted coastal defence systems and cruise missile storage and launch facilities on Greater Tunb Island, with the objective of further reducing Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
