Iran Threatens Retaliatory Action If US Continues Hormuz Strait Blockade

Iran states that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open to all commercial ships during the 10-day ceasefire period in Lebanon. However, Iran promises to take retaliatory action if the United States (US) blockade of its ports continues. Quoted from Al Jazeera on Saturday (18/4/2026), this was conveyed by Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei. The statement provides further explanation regarding Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s post on X. According to Tasnim, Baghaei said shipping activities through the Strait of Hormuz will be permitted via routes previously designated by Iran. Baghaei stated that Iran will convey retaliatory measures if the US continues the blockade. “If the maritime blockade against Iranian ports continues, Iran will take retaliatory action. Iran is the guardian of the Strait of Hormuz and will show leniency if necessary,” he said. US President Donald Trump welcomed Iran’s announcement of fully opening the Strait of Hormuz during the ceasefire in Lebanon. However, Trump said the US blockade of Iranian ports will continue until a peace agreement is signed. In a second message a few minutes later, as quoted by AFP on Friday (17/4), Trump posted that “The naval blockade will remain fully in effect regarding Iran, only, until our deal with Iran is 100% complete”.