"We have the capability to close the Strait of Hormuz," Alireza Tangsiri was quoted as saying by Iranian media on Sunday in defiance against Trump's threats.
Tangsiri added that the decision rests with "high-ranking officials, and the IRGC navy will act in accordance with orders."
On Tuesday, Trump signed a directive aiming to reduce Iran's oil exports to zero in a bid to pressure Tehran back to the nuclear negotiating table, and reimpose stringent economic sanctions.
He said that Iran would face "catastrophic" consequences if it does not negotiate a new nuclear agreement.
However, Tangsiri dismissed Trump's directive, saying the US is incapable of reducing Iran’s oil exports to zero.
"They cannot achieve their goals. We have stood against them for 46 years, and they cannot break the Muslims. Look at Gaza—Muslims, with empty hands, have resisted and defended themselves against the ruthless, child-killing, and bloodthirsty regime for over 15 months. So, they certainly cannot break a bigger country with sanctions. The more they have sanctioned us, the greater achievements we have made," he said.
The strait, a key route for global oil shipments, has been at the center of past tensions. Iran has repeatedly threatened to block it, including in 2018 after the US withdrew from the nuclear deal.
AzVision.az
More about:
