Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei issued a hardline statement on April 30, declaring that “Americans have no place in the Persian Gulf” and asserting that a “new phase” is taking shape in the Strait of Hormuz and the broader Gulf region. This statement is seen as Iran’s most direct response to the current Strait of Hormuz crisis, signaling that Tehran will not make any concessions on the issue of strait navigation.

Khamenei’s Statement

According to the Associated Press and Reuters, Khamenei delivered his remarks in Tehran, strongly condemning the US military presence and diplomatic pressure. He emphasized that the Persian Gulf is Iran’s “backyard” and that any external military presence in the region is unacceptable.

“The Persian Gulf belongs to the countries of the region; Americans have no reason and no right to maintain a military presence here,” Khamenei said. He also stated that the Gulf region is entering a “new phase,” suggesting that Iran is adopting a new strategy to deal with the current crisis.

Hormuz Strait Deadlock

Khamenei’s statement comes as tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are reaching a boiling point. Since Iran imposed restrictions on vessels passing through the strait, global crude oil prices have surged dramatically, with Brent crude briefly breaking above $108 per barrel.

The Trump administration has previously warned that the blockade measures could last for months, with US Central Command preparing plans for a new round of military strikes. The US is also actively seeking to build an international coalition to ensure freedom of navigation in the strait.

Regional Reactions

Iran’s hardline stance has raised concerns among regional countries. Members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have been closely monitoring developments, fearing that further escalation could have catastrophic effects on the region’s economy and security.

Meanwhile, there are divisions within Iran over whether a more flexible approach should be taken on the strait issue. Some analysts argue that prolonged confrontation could severely damage Iran’s economy, while hardliners insist that any concession would be seen as weakness.

The Role of the International Community

The UN Secretary-General’s spokesperson called on all parties to exercise restraint and resolve differences through dialogue. The EU’s foreign policy chief also said that the bloc is mediating with all sides, hoping to find a peaceful solution.

Analysts note that Khamenei’s latest statement suggests that Iran is unlikely to compromise on the Strait of Hormuz issue in the near term. This means the deadlock may persist, and global energy markets will continue to face uncertainty.

Sources: Associated Press, Reuters