Iran Issues Stern Warning Over Attacks on Oil Tankers Amid Rising Tensions
On Saturday, commanders from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a strong warning that any assault on Iranian oil tankers or commercial vessels would lead to retaliatory strikes against American military installations and ships in the vicinity. According to Iran's state-operated IRIB News, the IRGC navy command stated, "Any attack on Iranian oil tankers and commercial ships will be met with a wide attack on one of the American bases in the region and enemy ships." This warning comes as tensions escalate between Iranian and American forces in the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, a key passage for global oil transport.
Despite both sides reporting limited skirmishes recently, former President Donald Trump has asserted that a ceasefire is still in place. In a separate announcement reported by IRIB News, General Sardar Mousavi indicated that Iranian missiles and drones are on standby to target American and allied positions if given the command. "IRGC missiles and aerospace drones are locked on American targets in the region and aggressor enemy ships," he stated. "We are waiting for the order to fire." Meanwhile, Iranian officials revealed that Tehran is considering a proposal from the United States aimed at reducing tensions, while simultaneously blaming Washington for the recent escalation.
Ali Safari, an Iranian official, mentioned that Iran has received communications through various diplomatic channels indicating that the United States is interested in avoiding a larger military conflict. "We are reviewing their proposal," Safari noted, but he also expressed deep skepticism regarding American motives following the recent confrontations. He emphasized that the U.S. cannot exploit the Strait of Hormuz to launch attacks against Iran and neighboring countries again. Safari highlighted that Iran's primary goal is to restore stability in the shipping lane, which is vital for global energy supplies. "When we talk about ending the war, we refer to all fronts, particularly Lebanon," he added, connecting the maritime disputes to broader regional conflicts and discussions with Lebanese officials.
Safari also criticized regional governments that supported a United Nations Security Council resolution targeting Iran, accusing them of facilitating American military actions. He specifically called out the United Arab Emirates for its involvement.
In related developments, the United Kingdom announced the deployment of a warship to the Middle East to potentially safeguard shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The Royal Navy's HMS Dragon will assist in mine clearance operations and protect vessels as part of a "strictly defensive" strategy, according to the Ministry of Defense. A spokesperson stated, "The pre-positioning of HMS Dragon is part of prudent planning that will ensure that the UK is ready, as part of a multinational coalition jointly led by the UK and France, to secure the Strait when conditions allow."