Cairo: Head of Iran's Interests Section in Egypt Mojtaba Ferdosipour has said the Islamic Republic reserves the right to use all available options to defend its security against actions by the United States and the Israeli regime. Speaking to Al Jazeera Mubasher TV network, the envoy stated that the continuation of a US-led maritime blockade against Iran serves neither Washington's political nor economic interests.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, commenting on the possibility of direct talks between Tehran and Washington, Ferdosipour said Iran does not trust the United States and is not seeking direct negotiations under current conditions. He noted that Iran has proposed a new multi-stage initiative aimed at ending the conflict and lifting blockades, adding that the plan also addresses matters related to the Strait of Hormuz.

The diplomat stated that Iran has repeatedly declared that the strait is closed only to vessels linked to the United States and the Israeli regime. Ferdosipour said Iran has the right to manage security in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that this position does not violate international conventions. He reiterated that Tehran can employ all available tools to defend itself against attacks.

He also described the US maritime blockade as ineffective, arguing that Iran's extensive land borders with multiple countries provide alternative routes to sea access. On military readiness, he said that the US has already expended part of its regional missile stockpiles, while Iran is more prepared for any potential escalation.

In response to joint US-Israeli aggression beginning on January 28, 2026, Iran launched retaliatory strikes on military bases linked to the two regimes in the region and announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.