Iran will further tighten Hormuz if US naval blockade continues, top official says

A top official of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) has warned that if the US continues with its naval blockade on Tehran's ports, it will further seal the Strait of Hormuz and block other strategic passages, according to IRNA. Mohammad Baqer Zolqadr, the secretary of SNSC and a veteran Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander, said the escalation could cost the global economy, energy markets and US taxpayers dearly, IRNA reported. On Friday, Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, stressed Iran’s determination to establish mechanisms with Oman to manage traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, warning third parties against obstructing the process. Vessels are seen anchored in Bandar Abbas along the Strait of Hormuz in a picture obtained on 18 June 2026 (AFP/Isna)