Iran Threatens to Block Strait of Hormuz
The geopolitical tension between Iran and Israel has escalated once again, with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) threatening to block the crucial Strait of Hormuz. This threat comes in response to recent Israeli airstrikes and possible aggression against Iranian interests in the region.
Iran’s Warning
According to regional media reports, the commander of the IRGC Navy, General Alireza Tangsiri, issued the warning. While Iran is not in a hurry to act, it is determined to respond to any Israeli air strikes. General Tangsiri emphasized that Iran will immediately review its policy regarding maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, including the possibility of blockading the area, if Israel continues to provoke Iran.
Heightening Tensions
Israel has neither confirmed nor denied Iran’s accusations of the recent April 1st airstrike on the Iranian Embassy in Damascus, which resulted in the death of seven high-ranking IRGC members. Despite this, Israel’s military has taken precautionary measures to strengthen its defense against a potential Iranian retaliatory strike. Israeli media reports highlight the country’s air force conducting drills targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities and critical infrastructure.
International Reactions
In response to Israel’s extended military campaign in Gaza, Turkey has decided to restrict exports to Israel. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has called for an immediate cessation of attacks on Palestinians. Turkey’s Ministry of Trade announced on April 9th that it would limit exports of 54 goods to Israel until a ceasefire is declared in Gaza and humanitarian aid is allowed to freely enter the area.
Turkey has been one of the most vocal critics of Israel’s six-month-long military campaign in Gaza. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has described Israel as a “terrorist state.” Egypt’s President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, Jordan’s King Abdullah II, and French President Emmanuel Macron issued a joint statement calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the implementation of all relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. The statement stressed that only a two-state solution can bring peace to the Middle East.
Saudi Arabia’s Plea
In a notable reaction, Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz urged Israel to immediately halt its attacks on Palestinians. In a special message to mark the end of Ramadan, King Abdulaziz stressed that attacking Palestinians during the Eid Al-Fitr holiday is unacceptable. He emphasized the need to end the suffering of the Palestinian people by granting them their legitimate rights, including the right to establish an independent state.
As tensions continue to rise in the region, the possibility of Iran blocking the Strait of Hormuz remains a significant concern for global trade and security. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a de-escalation and a peaceful resolution.