Iran Warns US: Seize Oil, Face Retaliation in Persian Gulf

A senior security official in Iran has warned that if the US uses the 'prize courts' mechanism to seize Iranian oil tankers and confiscate their cargoes, Tehran will take swift action against US interests in the Persian Gulf.

The warning comes after reports emerged that the US Department of Justice is working to revive the 'prize courts,' a centuries-old legal mechanism used during naval wars but largely disused since World War II. The official stressed that if the US intends to seize Iranian oil, it must be prepared for reciprocal action against its own interests.

The security official noted that US interests in shipping, energy, insurance, financing, and related infrastructure in the Persian Gulf will not be immune from consequences. Companies and institutions involved in these areas have been identified and are being monitored.

The official emphasized that Iran is not seeking to harm regional trade or disrupt neutral states' activities but will respond accordingly if necessary. The US should not expect to confiscate Iranian assets while keeping its own interests safe, the official warned.