Iran warns US 'economic war' and naval blockade could trigger self-defense
Iran's foreign ministry spokesman says US economic warfare and naval blockade entitle Tehran to take defensive measures.
Iran has issued a stark warning that ongoing American economic pressure and a naval blockade will be treated as an extension of military aggression, potentially triggering a self-defense response from Tehran.
Speaking at a weekly press conference in the capital on Monday, Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei addressed the deteriorating state of Iran-U.S. relations and broader regional tensions. He asserted that Washington's policies constitute a blatant violation of Iran's national sovereignty and international law.
Baghaei argued that as long as the United States maintains its so-called 'economic war' and naval blockade, Iran reserves the right to respond. He framed any potential Iranian action as purely defensive, a direct and legal response to what he described as relentless military aggression by both the United States and Israel.
"This, in turn, entitles Iran to take necessary measures in self-defense, both legally and operationally," Baghaei stated, emphasizing that Iran will spare no effort to safeguard its national interests.