Pezeshkian said his government regretted the attacks that affected nearby states and signalled that Iran would avoid further strikes on neighbouring territories unless those countries became launch points for attacks against Iran. The statement appeared aimed at easing regional tensions after missile and drone operations across Gulf countries.
Despite the conciliatory tone, Iran’s military establishment delivered a more assertive message. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it was closely monitoring developments in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about possible confrontation with US naval forces operating in the waterway.
The strait is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, linking the Persian Gulf with global shipping routes and carrying a large share of the world’s oil supply.
Pezeshkian also struck a defiant tone regarding the broader conflict, saying Iran would never surrender to Israel or the United States. He stressed that Iran’s adversaries should not expect unconditional capitulation from the Iranian people, signalling Tehran’s determination to continue resisting external pressure.
The conflict escalated after Israeli and US strikes targeted Iranian territory, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei. The attacks triggered a wider regional crisis, with Iran launching missile and drone strikes against Israeli and US-linked targets across the Middle East, particularly in Gulf states.
Even after the apology, Iranian forces have continued military operations, which Tehran describes as retaliation for external aggression.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps further increased tensions by warning about maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. In a statement, the group said it was “waiting” to see whether US naval forces would escort commercial vessels through the passage, suggesting the possibility of confrontation if foreign warships expand their presence.
The impact on global trade has been immediate. Maritime traffic through the strait has slowed sharply, with reports indicating that only nine oil tankers and cargo vessels have crossed the route since the escalation began.
Given the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz for global energy supplies, the disruption has raised concerns about potential economic and energy market shocks extending far beyond the Middle East.
