Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has condemned what he described as a United States-enforced naval blockade on Iran, warning that its continuation is unacceptable amid rising tensions between Tehran and Washington.
In a statement on Thursday, Pezeshkian accused the U.S. of masking military pressure as maritime enforcement operations, insisting that Iran has shown restraint despite ongoing external pressure.
He said the measures targeting Iranian waters amount to coercion against a nation defending its sovereignty and independence, stressing that such actions cannot continue indefinitely.
The remarks come against the backdrop of heightened friction in the Gulf region, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route, where the United States has reportedly intensified naval operations. Iran has repeatedly described these actions as provocative and unlawful.
Pezeshkian further framed the dispute as part of a wider pattern of pressure politics, saying Iran continues to reject external attempts to force political concessions.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump also weighed in on the situation, insisting that Washington’s blockade would remain in place until a formal agreement is reached with Tehran. He claimed the pressure campaign was significantly affecting Iran’s economy and military capabilities.
Trump also alleged that U.S. forces intercepted an Iranian-linked vessel near the Strait of Hormuz after it attempted to bypass sanctions enforcement, though Iranian authorities have not confirmed the incident.
Iran has consistently condemned the increasing U.S. military presence in the region, describing it as destabilizing and a threat to maritime security.
The escalating exchange of accusations has raised concerns over regional stability, with analysts warning that continued tensions in the Gulf could further strain diplomatic relations and disrupt global energy routes.
