Iran to declare restricted maritime zone outside Strait of Hormuz

Iran has announced plans to declare a restricted maritime zone outside the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions amid a continued US naval blockade in the Gulf. According to Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaei, the restricted area will extend from the US blockade line to parts of the Gulf, with any vessel entering the zone facing sanctions.

Rezaei dismissed US President Donald Trump's claim that the strait remains open, stating that Iranian forces are monitoring US ships attempting unauthorized passage and will target them if necessary. The US, however, denies targeting an Iranian anti-destroyer missile over a US warship in the Strait of Hormuz. Amid the military escalation, Iran continues to export oil and receive its revenues despite sanctions.

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