Tehran Warns Neighbours: Those Supporting US “Economic War” Will Be Treated as Enemies

Mohsen Rezaei, the new hardline leader of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, has warned Persian Gulf countries following US President Donald Trump’s statements on tough measures against Tehran’s economy.

In an interview with state television, Rezaei said Iran could strike alternative oil transport routes outside the Persian Gulf that bypass the Strait of Hormuz if its neighbours join what he described as the US “economic war”.

“They will be considered enemies and we will target their interests,” Rezaei said.

Last week, Donald Trump announced a new campaign aimed at isolating the Iranian economy. The US president warned of “extraordinary economic consequences” for any country that helps or does business with Tehran, as the war approaches six months with no significant signs of a resolution.