Iran has warned European countries against deploying warships to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, cautioning that such a move would worsen tensions and drive up global energy prices.
Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, said on Monday that increased European military presence in the waterway would further destabilise an already fragile security situation and could have serious economic consequences for global oil markets.
The warning comes amid heightened diplomatic and military tensions following renewed hostilities and ceasefire discussions involving the United States and Iran.
On Sunday, Donald Trump criticised Iran’s response to his latest ceasefire proposal, describing it as “totally unacceptable,” according to reports.
Tehran had reportedly proposed a phased ceasefire framework that begins with a halt to hostilities linked to easing maritime restrictions, followed by a 30-day period of nuclear negotiations.
Iran has rejected calls for the complete dismantling of its nuclear infrastructure, instead proposing limited adjustments including the dilution of highly enriched uranium and transferring portions of its stockpile to a third country.
The country has also signalled willingness to temporarily pause uranium enrichment, though for a shorter timeframe than what Washington had initially demanded.
At the centre of Iran’s demands are the release of frozen assets, an end to what it describes as a US naval blockade of its ports, and reparations for damage caused by US-Israeli strikes.
Tehran has described these conditions as “reasonable,” insisting they form a core part of any potential agreement.
Iran has also expanded its ceasefire position to include regional considerations, stating that Lebanon must be incorporated into any agreement, citing ongoing Israeli military activity there as a “red line.”
The latest exchange underscores growing tensions over maritime security, nuclear negotiations, and broader regional conflicts, with global energy markets closely watching developments in the Strait of Hormuz due to its critical role in international oil transport.
