The US decision to build a maritime coalition to patrol the key sea route across the Strait of Hormuz has prompted outrage in Tehran, predicting it will result in more instability in the region. Tensions over the issue further escalated after reports of Israeli involvement in the matter, deemed a “clear threat” by the Islamic Republic.
Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif has apparently taken aim at Washington’ s efforts to build a US-led maritime coalition in the Persian Gulf, insisting that “any extra-regional presence is by definition source of insecurity” there. He warned that Iran “won’t hesitate to safeguard its security”.
Persian Gulf is vital lifeline and thus nat'l security priority for Iran, which has long ensured maritime security.
Mindful of this reality, any extra-regional presence is by definition source of insecurity – despite propaganda.
Iran won't hesitate to safeguard its security.
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) August 9, 2019