Mojtaba Khamenei says Iran will continue blocking the Strait of Hormuz as part of efforts to exert pressure on its adversaries.
Khamenei made the remarks on Thursday in a recorded message — his first public address since assuming leadership on Sunday following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei.
Earlier, on March 2, a commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared that the strait had been “closed,” warning that any vessel attempting to navigate the route would be set “ablaze”.
Rising tensions in the region have already disrupted global shipping. Several major container lines have halted voyages through both the Strait of Hormuz and the Suez Canal due to escalating security threats.
Reports indicate that at least five oil tankers have been damaged, two crew members killed, and roughly 150 vessels left stranded near the narrow passage separating Iran and Oman.
The situation has also rattled energy markets. Global crude prices briefly climbed above $100 per barrel on Monday — the highest level recorded since July 2022.
On Wednesday, Ebrahim Zolfaqari, spokesperson for Tehran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, warned that oil could surge to $200 per barrel.
He stressed that Iran would not allow “a single litre of oil” to move through the Strait of Hormuz for the benefit of the United States, Israel, or their allies.
In response, Donald Trump warned that “death, fire, and fury will reign upon them (Iran)” if the country disrupts oil flows through the passage.
Reaffirming Iran’s position, Khamenei said the country remains open to maintaining friendly relations with neighbouring states. However, he insisted that US military bases across the region must be shut down or risk continued attacks.
He added that Iran would persist in seeking revenge for “the blood of our martyrs” and expressed appreciation to the country’s armed forces for their sacrifices.
Khamenei also noted that plans are underway to provide financial assistance to individuals affected by the conflict.
