April 15, 2026 — Iran Threatens to Block Red Sea and Gulf of Oman if U.S. Blockade Continues.
Iran Threatens Expanded Maritime Disruptions
Iran's army warned on April 15, 2026, that it will block trade through the Red Sea along with the Gulf and Sea of Oman if the United States naval blockade on Iranian ports continues. The threat represents a significant escalation that could affect global shipping far beyond the already-disrupted Strait of Hormuz.
The Red Sea is a critical corridor for Suez Canal traffic, handling approximately 12-15% of global trade. If Iran follows through, the combined disruption of the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea would affect roughly 30-35% of global maritime oil transport — an unprecedented level of supply chain disruption that could push crude prices well above $120 per barrel.