Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has issued a stark warning to the United States, saying Tehran possesses weapons capable of sending American warships “to the bottom of the sea”.
The remarks, posted on social media, came as US naval vessels were deployed toward the Persian Gulf, escalating tensions in the region. Khamenei accused Washington of attempting to intimidate Iran and stressed that American forces operating near the country’s coastline would not be safe.
The warning coincides with a spike in hostilities between Tehran and Washington, including military exercises and reciprocal threats. Analysts warn that the situation raises the risk of a potential confrontation in the Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global oil shipments.
Iranian state media emphasized that Khamenei’s statement is part of a broader message underscoring the country’s military readiness and deterrence capabilities.
The cleric said, “The Americans constantly say that they’ve sent a warship toward Iran. Of course, a warship is a dangerous piece of military hardware.
However, more dangerous than that warship is the weapon that can send that warship to the bottom of the sea.
US officials have not immediately responded to the latest warning.
On Monday Iran launched large-scale military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically vital waterway for global oil shipments, just one day before nuclear negotiations with the United States are set to begin.
The drills underscore rising tensions between Tehran and Washington. Iranian officials have warned they could close the Strait entirely if the US launches any military action, heightening the risk of a potential energy supply shock.
Former US President Donald Trump responded to Iran’s warning, stating that Tehran should expect “very bad” consequences if it does not meet Washington’s demands.
The exchange signals a volatile backdrop as diplomats prepare to discuss nuclear and regional security issues.
On Monday Trump said onboard Air Force One, “I’ll be involved in those talks, indirectly. And they’ll be very important.
“I don’t think they want the consequences of not making a deal”.
Making reference to America’s stealth bombers the US President said, “We could have had a deal instead of sending the B-2s in to knock out their nuclear potential. And we had to send the B-2s
Observers say the timing of the war games is likely intended to demonstrate Iran’s deterrence capabilities while testing US responses ahead of sensitive negotiations. Energy markets have already reacted cautiously, with oil prices showing increased volatility amid fears of supply disruption.
The outcome of the talks, and Iran’s subsequent actions in the Strait, will be closely watched by both regional and global stakeholders, given the potential economic and geopolitical ramifications.
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