April 21 (Reuters) — Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said a U.S. blockade of Iranian ports constituted an "act of war" and therefore breached the ceasefire. He warned that Iran can neutralize restrictions and will defend its interests, posting the statement on X. The comment underscores rising tensions and the risk of further escalation. (Reporting by Menna Alaa El-Din and Muhammad Al Gebaly; Editing by Chris Reese)
Iran Foreign Minister Calls U.S. Blockade Of Ports An 'Act Of War,' Says Ceasefire Breached
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi speaks during a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Moscow, Russia, December 17, 2025. REUTERS/Ramil Sitdikov/Pool
April 21 (Reuters) — Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said the United States' blockade of Iranian ports amounted to an "act of war" and therefore violated the ceasefire, in a post on X.
"Iran knows how to neutralize restrictions, how to defend its interests, and how to resist bullying," Araqchi wrote on X on Tuesday.
Araqchi's statement frames the U.S. action as a direct challenge to the pause in hostilities and signals Tehran's intention to respond to economic and logistical restrictions. While he did not specify measures Iran would take, his language suggests Tehran may pursue countermeasures to protect its trade and strategic interests.
Context and Implications
The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the region, where actions such as port blockades carry economic and diplomatic consequences. International observers may view the declaration as increasing the risk of escalation, raising concerns about potential retaliatory steps and the broader stability of the ceasefire.
(Reporting by Menna Alaa El-Din and Muhammad Al Gebaly; Editing by Chris Reese)
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