World

TEHRAN — Iran has warned United Kingdom and France against sending warships to the Strait of Hormuz, threatening a “decisive and immediate response” if European naval forces enter the strategically vital waterway. The warning was issued on Sunday by Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi as tensions continue across the Gulf region despite a fragile ceasefire between Tehran and Washington. Gharibabadi said the deployment of any “extra-regional destroyers” under the justification of protecting maritime trade would only deepen the crisis and increase instability in the region. His remarks came after reports suggested Britain had dispatched the Royal Navy destroyer HMS Dragon to the Middle East, where it could potentially join an international maritime security mission operating near the Strait of Hormuz. According to reports, discussions over a possible European-led naval initiative are taking place between British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron as Western powers seek to secure one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes. The Strait of Hormuz remains a crucial chokepoint for global oil and liquefied natural gas exports, with nearly one-fifth of the world’s energy supplies passing through the narrow corridor linking the Gulf to international markets. Shipping activity in the region has remained heavily disrupted since the conflict that began on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched joint strikes inside Iran, sharply escalating regional tensions. Tehran has since tightened oversight and control around the strait, arguing that the U.S.-led naval blockade violates international law. Iranian officials have repeatedly accused Western allies of using maritime security missions as cover for military pressure against the Islamic republic. Earlier on Sunday, Iran reportedly submitted its response to a U.S.-backed peace proposal aimed at reducing hostilities and restoring safe navigation in Gulf waters. However, U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly described Tehran’s reply as “totally unacceptable,” signaling continued disagreements over sanctions relief, nuclear restrictions, and regional security guarantees. Also Read | Iran welcomes Saudi-Pakistan Defence Pact, urges regional stability Meanwhile, Gulf nations have voiced concerns that increasing military deployments in the Strait of Hormuz could further destabilize the region and threaten global energy markets. Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani warned against turning the waterway into “a pressure tool,” saying such actions risk worsening an already fragile security situation in the Gulf. Analysts say the latest exchange highlights growing concerns among regional and international powers over maritime security, energy supply routes, and the possibility of renewed escalation despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.