Iran has threatened to take control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait in the Red Sea if the United States launches a ground invasion, according to an unnamed military source quoted by Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency. The source warned that attacks could be launched on vessels transiting the strategic waterway in retaliation for US operations on Iranian territory or islands.
The Strait of Bab al-Mandab lies between Djibouti and Yemen, where Iran-aligned Houthi rebels have previously targeted ships. The military source claimed Iran has the capability to pose a "credible threat" in the area, stating that Tehran is constantly monitoring enemy movements and would respond with surprise actions to double the costs for any US aggression.
This threat follows Iran's seizure of the Strait of Hormuz last month, which disrupted global oil supplies and caused a shortage of an estimated 4.3 million barrels per day, according to energy analysts Kpler. The move has led Asian countries reliant on imports to implement drastic measures, including four-day working weeks.
Tehran's mayor, Dr Alireza Zakani, framed the control of the Strait of Hormuz as a sanction against the US and its allies, stating on social media that Iran is shaping a "new sanction framework" and that its missiles have already delivered results. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf also warned of attacks on a neighbouring country if it cooperates with efforts by "the enemies" to occupy one of Iran's islands.
Since the start of Operation Epic Fury, Iran has attacked countries across the Gulf that host US bases. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned on Wednesday that the world is "staring down the barrel of a wider war" and urged de-escalation through diplomatic channels.
