Iranian lawmaker calls maritime blockade a declaration of war

Iranian parliamentarian Manouchehr Mottaki stated in an interview with Iran International TV that a maritime blockade is tantamount to a declaration of war. He added that Iran's fighters could decide to remove such obstacles through military action, whether tomorrow or next week. The comments follow U.S. President Donald Trump's statement that he would not lift the blockade on Iranian ports until an agreement is reached, and he has reportedly discussed extending the blockade with oil industry executives. Meanwhile, Iran has shown no intention of making concessions, and a military advisor to the country's Supreme Leader has warned that Iran will respond if the blockade continues.