Iran threatens to block the world's main oil artery

“The decision to close the Strait of Hormuz is made by the top leadership, and as a military officer, I declare that we are ready to do so if our senior officers give us the order,” said Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the IRGC Navy.

Part of the Strait of Hormuz was closed to shipping for several hours during the exercises, Tasnim reported.

About 20% of the world's oil and 30% of the world's liquefied natural gas supplies pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which is also known as the planet's most important energy artery. Iranian authorities have repeatedly warned that the strait will be closed in case of a threat.

Iran is conducting the exercises after US President Donald Trump threatened the country's authorities with very harsh measures if the deal is broken. The parties are discussing Iran's nuclear program in Geneva on February 17.

As part of the exercises to control the Strait of Hormuz, Iran deployed missile ships and carried out training strikes from land on simulated targets in the strait. Drone operators are also involved in the maneuvers, using both reconnaissance and strike drones.

Photo: Tasnim.