Iran has warned that it will not allow US warships to enter the Gulf, with the head of the Iranian military claiming that Tehran’s forces have weakened the American navy’s ability to operate near Iranian waters.
Major General Ali Abdollahi, chief of Iran’s military, made the remarks in a statement reported on Saturday, October 24, as tensions between Tehran and Washington remain high.
Abdollahi claimed that Iranian forces had rendered the US Navy ineffective and argued that American warships could no longer approach waters surrounding the Gulf or come close to Iran’s territorial boundaries.
He said Iran would prevent US warships from entering the Gulf, signalling Tehran’s determination to challenge any American naval presence it considers a threat.
The Iranian military chief also questioned US claims about the extent of damage inflicted during the conflict, suggesting that Washington’s statements contradicted its assertions about the destruction of Iranian capabilities.
“If you have destroyed everything, what is the point of repeating these delusional claims?” Abdollahi said, according to the report.
However, the statement did not provide independent evidence to support his claims about the operational condition of the US Navy or its ability to operate in the region.
Iran signals strategy against US and Israel
Abdollahi said Iran’s strategy was to draw the United States and Israel into what he described as a difficult situation of their own making.
His remarks reflect Tehran’s increasingly confrontational rhetoric towards Washington and its regional ally, Israel, amid continuing security concerns in the Middle East.
The Gulf remains strategically important because of its proximity to major energy-producing countries and the maritime routes used to transport oil and other commodities. Any confrontation involving military vessels in the area could have wider implications for regional security and international shipping.
Khamenei adviser criticises Trump and Netanyahu
Separately, Mohammad Mokhber, an adviser to Iran’s supreme leader, criticised US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over their threats against Tehran.
Mokhber argued that their statements demonstrated frustration and helplessness rather than strength.
Neither statement provided details of any immediate military action. The latest remarks nevertheless underscore Iran’s determination to project defiance as tensions with the United States and Israel continue to shape the regional security environment.
