Iran Warns of Wider War and Blocks Persian Gulf Entry for U.S. Vessels

Iran announced on Saturday that U.S. warships will not be allowed to enter the Persian Gulf, warning that any new attack by the U.S. and Israel will bring widespread consequences. Brig. Gen. Hossein Mohebbi, an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps spokesperson, stated in Tehran that Iran will achieve absolute victory in an apocalyptic war. He added that the conflict will decide the fate of other nations in the region, referring to Persian Gulf monarchies. Maj. Gen. Ali Abdollahi, Chief of the General Staff of Iran's Armed Forces, said in a separate statement that U.S. naval forces can no longer approach Persian Gulf waters. He asserted that U.S. military vessels are rusty and will not be permitted to enter under any circumstances. These warnings followed media reports that Washington and Israel are planning to resume strikes, with U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack stating on Friday that a strike could happen within days.

Context

The ongoing conflict began on February 28, 2026, when the U.S. and Israel launched military actions against Iran. The U.S. has since imposed a blockade on Iranian ports to stop oil exports, while Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz. Despite U.S. claims that the transit route remains open for commercial traffic, Brent crude oil prices rose to $117 a barrel on Friday. Iranian officials have previously warned that any renewed attacks could lead to retaliation targeting Persian Gulf countries and critical regional infrastructure such as undersea internet cables.