Iran warns of painful response if US attacks, as it vows control over key strait operations

Iran hints at forcing outsiders to the seabed

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei issued a written message warning of a “painful response” if the United States renews attacks. He said Tehran would end “enemies’ abuses” of a strategic waterway under new management, adding that outsiders have no place there except “at the bottom of its waters,” signaling continued assertive control.