Iran has threatened the U.S. with a "painful response" for attempting to establish control over the Strait of Hormuz
Iran has declared its readiness to deliver “prolonged and painful blows” against U.S. positions should American attacks resume or attempts be made to establish control over the Strait of Hormuz. Such rhetoric further escalates tensions surrounding one of the world’s key energy routes.
This is reported by Reuters.
Tehran emphasizes that blocking the strait remains a response to the U.S. naval blockade, which restricts exports of Iranian oil—a critically important source of revenue for the country. Despite a formal ceasefire in effect since April 8, the parties have effectively reached an impasse in negotiations.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump was set to hear a briefing on possible new military operations against Iran. According to U.S. sources, a series of strikes is being considered to force Tehran back to the negotiating table.
Against the backdrop of this news, global markets reacted with a sharp spike in oil prices. The price of the benchmark Brent crude rose above $126 per barrel before falling back to around $114.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghai stated that one should not expect quick results from the negotiations.
“Expecting a result in a short time, regardless of who the mediator is, is, in my opinion, not very realistic,” he noted.
Tensions are further heightened by reports of air defense activity in Iran’s capital, Tehran. According to local agencies, air defense systems responded to small drones and reconnaissance drones.
The situation around the Strait of Hormuz remains critical, as a significant portion of the world’s oil supplies passes through it. Any escalation could have serious consequences for the global economy and the safety of shipping.
Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron announced active diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. During a visit to Andorra, he emphasized that he is negotiating with both Donald Trump and the Iranian side to resolve the energy crisis “at its root.”
Iran has presented the United States with a new proposal to resolve the situation surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and end the war. At the same time, Tehran is proposing to postpone nuclear negotiations to a later stage.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Iran continues to attempt to maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that such approaches are unacceptable to the United States and underscored the importance of freedom of navigation in the region.
