DUBAI: Iran’s Defense Minister Mohammad Reza Ashtiani has warned of “extraordinary problems” if the proposed US-backed multinational task force to protect shipping in the Red Sea moves forward.
The US announced last week to establish the task force in response to attacks by Yemen’s Houthis in the Red Sea.
Iranian media reported that Ashtiani has warned the possible move that a proposed U.S.-backed multinational task force to protect shipping in the Red Sea would encounter “extraordinary problems.”
Ashtiani emphasized Iran’s predominance in the region, saying, “Nobody can make a move in a region where we have predominance,” referring to the Red Sea.
He did not specify the measures Iran might take in response to the establishment of a U.S.-backed Red Sea task force.
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told journalists last week that talks are underway with “other countries” to establish a “maritime task force” ensuring safe passage of ships in the Red Sea. However, further details about the task force have not been disclosed.
Houthi group in Yemen has warned to attack ships in Red Sea as reaction to the Israeli rennetless attacks on Gaza and West Bank targeting civilian population, schools, hospitals and UN installations.
