Iran’s New Supreme Leader Calls for Strait of Hormuz Closure, Attacks on US Bases

Mojtaba Khamenei, recently appointed as Iran’s Supreme Leader, has issued a strong call for the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz and demanded the immediate closure of all U.S. Military bases in the Middle East, threatening attacks if they remain open. This comes amid escalating tensions following a U.S.-Israeli military operation that began on February 28 and Iran’s retaliatory strikes across the region.

Khamenei’s First Public Statement

In his first public statement since succeeding his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Mojtaba Khamenei stated that the Strait of Hormuz should remain closed as a “tool to pressure the enemy.” He also asserted that all U.S. Military bases in the Middle East should be closed immediately, warning that they “will be attacked” if they are not. CNN reported these comments were made in televised remarks translated by Reuters.

Escalating Conflict and Oil Prices

Khamenei’s statements followed a period of heightened conflict. The U.S. And Israel launched coordinated strikes against Iran on February 28, resulting in the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other family members. Oil prices have risen in response to the escalating tensions and threats to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil supply. CNN noted that oil prices extended gains following Khamenei’s statement.

U.S. Response and Concerns

U.S. President Donald Trump expressed “disappointment” with the selection of Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader, stating, “I don’t believe he can live in peace.” CNN reported on Trump’s comments. But, it remains unclear whether the U.S. Aims for regime change in Tehran as a primary objective in its military operation. Experts suggest that airstrikes alone may not be sufficient to unseat Iran’s leadership.

Retaliatory Attacks and Naval Confrontations

Iran has been escalating its retaliatory attacks, targeting tankers in and near the Strait of Hormuz. CNN reported that on Thursday, a container ship off the coast of the United Arab Emirates was struck by an “unknown projectile,” marking the sixth attack in two days on vessels operating in the Persian Gulf. Earlier in the week, two foreign oil tankers were set ablaze in Iraqi waters following an Iranian attack, and a Thai bulk carrier caught fire in the Strait of Hormuz. The New York Post reported that U.S. Forces obliterated several Iranian navy vessels, including 16 minelayers, near the Strait of Hormuz in response to reports of Iran laying mines in the waterway.

Strait of Hormuz: A Critical Chokepoint

The Strait of Hormuz is a strategically vital waterway, carrying approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply. The New York Post highlighted the importance of keeping this route open, with Trump warning of severe military consequences if Iran attempts to disrupt shipping through mining.

Ongoing Military Operations

There are no indications that the U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran’s military and critical infrastructure are nearing completion, with air and sea attacks intensifying. 13WHAM reported that the war has entered its second week, with strikes persisting across the Middle East.