Iran warns of military surprises after U.S. rejects Hormuz proposal

Tensions between Iran and the United States have escalated following the rejection by President Donald Trump of an Iranian proposal to cease hostilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials have signaled readiness for military surprises, asserting that their missile and drone capabilities have become more advanced. Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi stated that Iran’s military is highly experienced in “asymmetric warfare” and warned that any U.S. interference in the Strait of Hormuz would face a “decisive slap.”

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, speaking at the United Nations, emphasized that Iran seeks peaceful nuclear technology rather than nuclear weapons. He characterized U.S. sanctions as a form of “direct terrorism” against the Iranian people and argued that U.S. and Israeli actions in the region violate the UN Charter. Pezeshkian noted that recent statements from Trump have altered Iran’s approach to responding to American policies.

While Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has engaged in discussions in the U.S., Pezeshkian expressed a lack of trust in American commitments. Meanwhile, Iran has denied reports of new technical negotiations with the U.S., suggesting such rumors are intended to influence oil markets. Regional actors, including Russia and Saudi Arabia, have commented on the situation, with Saudi Arabia emphasizing the need to protect global energy security and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb.