Iran warns US economic warfare will be treated as an ‘act of war’

Mohsen Rezaei, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, has warned that Tehran will regard any nation participating in or supporting a US-led economic campaign against Iran as an ‘act of war’. The warning follows recent statements by US President Donald Trump regarding a ‘crushing economic operation’ intended to isolate Iran.

Rezaei stated that if the economic pressure continues, Iran may prevent oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf. While he noted that Tehran would initially seek dialogue with countries involved in the US campaign to urge them to remain neutral, he warned that those who refuse would be viewed as ‘enemies’ and targeted for their interests.

The escalation occurs despite a memorandum of understanding signed between the US and Iran on June 18, aimed at ending regional conflicts. Rezaei indicated that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed unless the United States fulfills its commitments under that agreement.