Dhaka, April 15, 2026 — Iran has warned that it may shut down maritime traffic in the Red Sea if the United States does not lift its ongoing naval blockade, raising fears of a broader disruption to global trade routes.
In a statement broadcast on Iranian state television, senior military official Ali Abdollahi said that continued U.S. actions against Iranian commercial vessels and oil tankers would be considered a violation of the current ceasefire understanding. He added that Iran’s armed forces are prepared to halt all import and export activities across strategic waterways, including the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea.
The threat signals a potential escalation in regional tensions, as these waterways are critical for global energy shipments and international commerce.
Analysts suggest that Iran could enforce such a move indirectly by activating allied groups, particularly the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, who have previously targeted shipping vessels in the Red Sea.
The development comes amid fragile diplomatic efforts to extend a ceasefire between Washington and Tehran, with both sides yet to reach a consensus. Any disruption in the Red Sea corridor could have significant consequences for global supply chains, especially oil and gas markets.
