Iran threatens ‘fully offensive’ shift if US fails to ease blockade

Iran has threatened a “fully offensive” shift in its strategy against the United States if Washington fails to ease its naval blockade and implement a memorandum of understanding within “a few weeks.” A senior Iranian official stated that Tehran no longer believes in relying on pressure or mediation for peace, setting a deadline for the U.S. to fulfill its commitments. If diplomacy fails, “all Iranian entities” are prepared to escalate tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and across the region. This warning comes as the U.S. blockade has severely impacted Iran’s oil exports and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has significantly decreased. Israeli officials are detecting signs that Iran’s leadership may target energy infrastructure, shipping routes, and U.S. allies to increase the economic and political cost of the conflict, potentially initiating the next major round of fighting.