Tehran on December 3 criticized the United States after accusing Washington of harassing Iranian commercial vessels in international waters. Speaking to reporters, the spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry stated that the US's continued targeting of its commercial ships shows that Washington has not abandoned its long-standing 'hostile policy' toward Tehran.
According to the official, the harassment not only violates international law but also threatens maritime security in an already tense region. Iran believes this is part of US efforts to exert economic and military pressure on the Islamic Republic.
In response, Iran warned it would take 'appropriate' countermeasures to protect its interests and security. Tehran also called on the international community to condemn US behavior and demanded Washington immediately cease destabilizing activities in the Gulf.
Previously, over the years, clashes and mutual accusations between the two countries' navies in this strategic waterway have not been uncommon. However, Iran's latest move shows that tensions may still simmer despite earlier diplomatic contacts between the two sides.
Analysts suggest the latest incident could further complicate the regional security landscape, especially as negotiations over Iran's nuclear program have yet to achieve significant progress.
