Iran’s newly appointed security chief has warned Gulf neighbours that joining American efforts to pressure Tehran’s economy would make them enemies, and has threatened US commercial interests in the region. Mohsen Rezaei, the hardline head of Iran’s supreme national security council, made the remarks in his first interview since taking the post, as Washington intensifies its campaign against the Islamic Republic.
Speaking to state television, Rezaei said Iran would target oil-shipping routes out of the Gulf — including alternatives to the Strait of Hormuz — if neighbouring states participated in what he called the “economic war” waged by the United States. Those neighbours would be “considered an enemy” and “we will target their interests”, he said, according to the interview.
The warning comes amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington, with former US president Donald Trump doubling down on his claim that the Strait of Hormuz is a new US territory. The strait is a critical chokepoint through which roughly a fifth of global oil consumption passes, making any disruption a significant risk to world energy markets.
Rezaei, a former commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, is known for his hardline stance toward the West and regional rivals. His appointment to lead the supreme national security council signals a continuation of Tehran’s confrontational posture as it faces mounting economic pressure from sanctions and diplomatic isolation.
The new security chief’s threats extend beyond regional states. He also warned that American commercial interests in the region could be targeted if Washington proceeds with what he described as economic aggression against Iran. The remarks suggest Tehran is prepared to escalate beyond the Strait of Hormuz, potentially affecting shipping lanes and trade routes that are vital to global supply chains.
Iran has previously threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz in response to US pressure, though such moves have historically been avoided due to the risk of military confrontation. Rezaei’s comments indicate that Tehran may now consider alternative routes and targets, broadening the scope of potential retaliation.
The United States has not officially responded to Rezaei’s interview, but the escalation in rhetoric comes as Washington seeks to rally international support for its economic measures against Iran. Gulf states, which host US military bases and depend on stable oil exports, now face a difficult choice between aligning with Washington or risking Iranian retaliation.
Analysts note that the situation remains fluid, with both sides signalling readiness for further confrontation. The coming weeks are likely to test the limits of diplomatic channels as the region braces for potential disruptions to energy flows and trade.