Iran's Former IRGC Commander Declares Strait of Hormuz Will Stay Closed, Blocks US Naval Entry
In a significant development reported by Iran's state media, former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander Mohsen Rezaee has asserted that Iran will maintain the closure of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and prevent US warships from entering the Persian Gulf. This announcement, made during a mass funeral procession in Tehran, underscores escalating tensions in West Asia.
Rezaee Blames US for Regional Insecurity, Calls for Withdrawal
According to Press TV, Rezaee, who also serves as a high-ranking member of Iran's Expediency Council, addressed participants at the funeral for Ali Shamkhani, who was assassinated in a US-Israeli strike on February 28. He emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz will remain shut, with no US warship permitted in Persian Gulf waters. Rezaee stated, "The presence of US forces in the Persian Gulf has been the main factor behind insecurity for the past 50 years. It is impossible to ensure security there unless the United States withdraws from the region, and regional countries, particularly Iran and Oman, take control of the Strait of Hormuz."
Iran Demands Reparations and Security Guarantees
Press TV further reported that Rezaee outlined conditions for Iran to consider ending its retaliatory operations. He insisted that the Islamic Republic would only halt such actions after receiving full reparations for damages caused by what he termed "terrorist US-Israeli strikes" and upon obtaining firm guarantees regarding future regional security. These guarantees include a complete US withdrawal from the Persian Gulf, highlighting Iran's firm stance on sovereignty and regional control.
Rezaee Claims Iran's Triumph in Confrontation with US
In his remarks, Rezaee also claimed that Iran has emerged victorious politically, militarily, and economically during the ongoing confrontation. He pointed to economic measures, noting, "From an economic perspective, Americans took an unprecedented decision in the past 44 years, and released 170 million barrels of crude oil from their strategic reserves in order to lower soaring prices." However, he predicted this would be short-lived, adding, "This will not last for more than one or two weeks as prices will surge sharply once again."
Iran Shatters 'Invincibility Myth' of United States
Rezaee further asserted that Iran has shattered what he called the "invincibility myth" of the United States. He declared, "No one could ever expect a country like Iran to deal a sharp blow to the United States, which enjoys the most sophisticated technologies, aircraft, missiles and air defence systems. Future is ours, and the Iranian flag will be hoisted high." This statement reflects Iran's confidence in its strategic position and defiance against perceived external threats.
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, could have far-reaching implications for international trade and energy markets, amplifying concerns over stability in West Asia.
