Iran says US restrictions on vessels in international waters 'illegal and constitutes piracy'

TEHRAN - Iran's military said Monday that US restrictions on vessels in international waters are "illegal and constitute piracy."

"The restrictions imposed by criminal America on maritime navigation and transit in international waters are illegal and constitute piracy," said a statement issued by Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, the unified command of the Iranian armed forces.

Iran will decisively implement a permanent mechanism to control the Strait of Hormuz following US threats, the statement said.

No port in the Persian Gulf or the Gulf of Oman will be safe if Iran's ports are threatened, it added.