Iran FM: US blockade is act of war

The Foreign Minister's statement adds a specific condemnation of the striking of a commercial vessel and hostage-taking of its crew as a greater violation.

Araghchi added a new statement asserting Iran's ability to neutralize restrictions, defend its interests, and resist bullying.

No new facts; this is a restatement of the Foreign Minister's position.

The message adds the Foreign Minister's direct quote and his condemnation of the vessel strike and hostage-taking as a greater violation.

The statement explicitly links the blockade to the ceasefire and notes that talks are on hold as the ceasefire is set to expire.

Reuters confirms the statement, attributing it directly to Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and specifying the blockade targets Iranian ports.

The Foreign Minister added that striking a commercial vessel and taking its crew hostage is an even more serious violation, and asserted Iran's ability to neutralize restrictions and resist intimidation.

Araqchi's statement now includes specific mention of striking commercial vessels and taking crews hostage as greater violations, and emphasizes Iran's ability to neutralize restrictions.