Iran to respond as US moves to target commercial shipping: Source
Sources tell Al Mayadeen that Iran is prepared to decisively respond to any US attempt to obstruct its commercial ships amid rising tensions in the Gulf and Sea of Oman.
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In this picture released by the official website of the Iranian Army on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, a missile is fired from a vessel during Iranian Navy drill in the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean. (AP)
Indicators point to escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, sources told Al Mayadeen, as Washington reportedly prepares to obstruct Iranian commercial shipping under the pretext of renewed sanctions on Iran.
According to the sources, any such move by the US would provoke a swift and decisive response from Tehran, citing the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps Navy and the Iranian Army's possession of capabilities that can neutralize any threat posed to Gulf maritime security and the Sea of Oman.
They emphasized that Iran's naval fleet and missile bases, deployed along the country's southern coastline, are ready to respond immediately to any hostile action targeting its commercial or civilian vessels.
The sources added that any attempt to target Iranian ships would trigger a direct response, underscoring Iran's readiness to defend its maritime interests, further confirming that regional countries have been explicitly warned: any cooperation with the US in actions that obstruct Iranian commercial shipping will not go unanswered by Tehran.
In event of mishap, Navy to respond with all might: IRGC chief
On October 5, IRGC Commander Major General Mohammad Pakpour inspected naval units situated at Gulf bases, assessing their combat preparedness as high during his visit to the operational units stationed on the islands.
Addressing the naval units, the IRGC commander stated, "Just as the armed forces brought the Zionist regime and the United States to their knees in the 12-day imposed war, if any movement is made by the enemies in the sea and islands, the IRGC Navy will respond with all might."
He also credited the forces' high morale and profound faith as a key strength that intimidates "Israel" and the US. General Pakpour additionally oversaw the sailing of a United States ship in the Gulf during his tour.
This comes amid rising tensions in the region, as the United States ups its military build-up in countries neighboring Iran.
Read more: Tehran warns US amid Gulf buildup: 'We won't bow to pressure'