TEHRAN: Iran has warned neighbouring countries against joining the United States’ economic campaign against Tehran, saying nations that cooperate with Washington could be treated as enemies and face retaliation.

Mohsen Rezaee, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, issued the warning on Saturday, saying Tehran would target the interests of neighbouring states if they participated in what Iran describes as a US “economic war.” He also threatened to prevent oil exports from the Gulf if regional countries supported Washington’s campaign.

Rezaee said Iran was not seeking to expand the conflict but would respond if neighbouring governments became involved in US economic measures. He warned that alternative routes used to transport oil from the Gulf could also become targets.

The warning comes after US President Donald Trump announced plans for what he described as an unprecedented campaign of economic pressure and isolation against Iran. Washington has urged other countries to support efforts aimed at restricting Tehran’s economy.

Tensions have also centred on the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy shipments. Rezaee insisted the waterway remained closed and said Iran would not reopen it until Washington changed its approach.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict remain stalled, with disagreements continuing over the implementation of a previous US-Iran understanding and navigation through the strategic waterway.