Iran mocks Trump's 'bluff', warns of 'cards not yet played' as oil markets flinch

TEHRAN, IRAN: Iran warned on Monday, April 13, that it could retaliate against a proposed US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, dismissing President Donald Trump’s threat as a “bluff.” 

The remarks come after the deadline passed for the start of a potential US maritime blockade and following the collapse of recent negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.

Iranian officials signaled that any such move would be treated as an act of war. Meanwhile, global oil prices have surged amid uncertainty over the critical shipping route.

Iran rejects blockade threat and warns of military response

Iranian officials strongly rejected the prospect of a US naval blockade, with Ebrahim Rezaei, spokesperson for the parliament’s national security commission, calling the threat “a bluff rather than reality.”

He warned that Tehran would respond if the situation escalates militarily. 

“The claim that Trump has said he will begin a naval blockade of Iran is bluff rather than reality, because such a move would be considered an act of war and we would respond,” Rezaei said.

He added that such actions “would further complicate the situation he has already gotten himself into and would unsettle markets that are already reacting with anger.”

Rezaei also suggested Iran could escalate its response, stating, “We may reveal other ‘cards’ that we have not yet used in this game.”

He urged the US to “respect the Iranian people” and “accept your defeat and do not seek at the negotiating table what you failed to achieve in war.”

A large oil tanker ship sails the Strait of Hormuz, Persian Gulf, Iran (Getty Images)

Iran calls blockade 'piracy' and warns regional ports at risk

Iran’s armed forces echoed the warning, describing the proposed blockade as illegal and characterizing it as “piracy.”

A military spokesperson said, “The criminal actions of America in restricting maritime transit in international waters are illegal and constitute piracy.”

The statement added, “The Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran clearly and firmly declare that security of ports in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman is either for everyone or for no one.”

Officials further warned that if Iran’s ports are threatened, regional ports could also face risks. 

“If the security of Iran's ports is threatened, no port in the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman will remain safe,” the statement said.

Iran also indicated it might implement a “permanent mechanism” to control the Strait in response to continued US pressure.

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also warned of economic consequences, writing, “Enjoy the current pump figures. With the so-called ‘blockade’, soon you’ll be nostalgic for $4–$5 gas.”

His remarks came as oil prices surged amid fears of prolonged disruption. Trump signaled a reduced urgency for renewed negotiations following the breakdown of weekend talks.

Speaking to reporters after arriving at Joint Base Andrews, he said, “Oh, I don’t know. I don’t care if they come back or not. If they don’t come back, I’m fine.”