Iran Announces Restricted Zone Near Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions

Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaei announced the upcoming establishment of a "restricted zone" near the Strait of Hormuz, which Tehran will control. Ships entering this zone without adhering to Iranian regulations will face sanctions. This declaration follows recent clashes in the Persian Gulf, with an Iraqi pro-Iranian militia media outlet claiming Iran fired missiles at vessels violating the strait's rules. Rezaei asserted that Hormuz is "totally closed," contradicting U.S. claims that the waterway remains open. He also stated Iran conducted a test of an anti-destroyer missile against a U.S. vessel over the weekend, though he added Iran would keep the strait open as long as the U.S. does not threaten or attack it. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright suggested a nuclear deal with Iran might have to wait for a future Iranian administration, also noting the U.S. might seek to dismantle Iran's nuclear capabilities. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Iran against attacking Israel, promising an "unimaginable blow" and describing the Iranian regime as weakened and nearing its end.