Iran has strongly criticised the US naval blockade on its ports, warning that the move will ultimately harm the global economy rather than pressure Tehran.
#BREAKING Trump says he ordered US Navy to ‘seek and interdict every vessel in International Waters that has paid a toll to Iran’ pic.twitter.com/4JXi5izgZ5
— Anadolu English (@anadoluagency) April 12, 2026
In a sharp statement on Monday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei questioned the logic behind what he called a “revenge of choice” against the international community. “Can an illegal ‘war of choice’ be won through a ‘revenge of choice’ against the global economy?! Is it ever worthwhile to cut off one’s nose to spite one’s face?!” he asked.
The US blockade, announced by President Donald Trump on Sunday after talks in Islamabad failed to produce a deal, came into effect on Monday at 10am Washington time (14:00 GMT). Trump warned that any Iranian military vessels approaching the blockade zone would be “immediately eliminated.”
Trump warns Iran that if any of their “fast attack ships” approach the blockade they will be “immediately ELIMINATED,” as the Iranian port blockade comes into force. pic.twitter.com/8FqPkn4O7S
— The Daily News (@DailyNewsJustIn) April 13, 2026
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that the restrictions apply to the entire Iranian coastline, including ports and energy infrastructure, without distinction.
Iranian officials have described the siege as an “act of piracy” and a violation of the fragile two-week ceasefire. They accuse the US of breaching the truce by allowing continued Israeli strikes on Lebanon, which Pakistan — the mediator — had said was part of the overall agreement.
Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that the blockade would only push US gasoline prices higher. The average price in the US has already risen above $4.12 per gallon, up significantly since the war began.
Despite the escalation, Pakistan has said it remains committed to mediation. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated on Monday that Islamabad would continue its efforts to sustain momentum for peace and stability in the region.
The blockade adds fresh tension to the already volatile situation, with disputes over the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s nuclear programme remaining major sticking points.
