Iran responds to U.S. outreach efforts: approaching will be met with strikes

According to a report by the Islamic Republic News Agency of Iran on the 4th, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Baghae’i said that day, in response to the United States “guiding” trapped vessels to leave the Strait of Hormuz, “The personnel responsible for dealing with such illegal acts are fully prepared, and they also know how to defend Iran’s interests and security.” At a press conference, Baghae’i said, “Iran has already made it clear that it regards itself as the guardian and defender of the Strait of Hormuz, an important waterway.” Earlier on the 4th, Iran’s Islamic Republic Broadcasting and Television, citing remarks by Abdolahi, a senior official at the Central Headquarters of Iran’s Hatem Anbia Armed Forces, reported that, “We warn any foreign armed forces—especially the aggressive U.S. military—that if their intention is to approach or enter the Strait of Hormuz, they will be targeted.” U.S. President Donald Trump posted on social media on the 3rd saying that the United States will begin a “decongestion” operation in the Middle East at 4 a.m. local time to “guide” ships trapped in the Strait of Hormuz out of the strait. (Xinhua)