Iranian military leaders have issued a strong warning, vowing to disrupt movement in the Strait of Hormuz in response to the impending US naval blockade of Iranian ports.
A senior Iranian official stated that no port in the Gulf region will be safe if Iran’s own ports are threatened as the United States prepares to enforce the blockade starting April 13, 2026.
Iran’s Direct Threat Amid Escalating Tensions
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and regular army forces have signaled they are ready to take aggressive action to counter the US move. Officials warned that any attempt to blockade or threaten Iranian ports could trigger widespread disruption across the entire Gulf, putting international shipping and energy infrastructure at risk.
This latest threat comes just hours before the US Central Command (CENTCOM) is scheduled to begin blocking all maritime traffic entering or exiting Iranian ports at 10:00 A.M. ET on April 13.
US President Donald Trump had announced the blockade via Truth Social following the collapse of US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan. He described Iran’s actions as “world extortion” and stated the US Navy — “the finest in the world” — would enforce the measure until the Strait of Hormuz operates freely for all nations.
Why the Strait of Hormuz Matters
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical chokepoints, carrying approximately 20% of global oil trade. Any major disruption could lead to sharp spikes in oil prices, affect global energy markets, and cause widespread economic anxiety.
Iran has previously laid mines and attacked vessels in the area, while the US has vowed to destroy such threats and ensure freedom of navigation.