Iran Threatens Indian Ocean Expansion as 80 Nations Demand Hormuz Reopening

Adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Yahya Rahim Safavi warned on September 24, 2026, that Iran may expand its military operations to the Indian Ocean if the United States or Israel launch further attacks. This represents the first explicit threat toward the Indian Ocean by a senior adviser to the Supreme Leader and potentially endangers the US-British base at Diego Garcia.

Simultaneously, a coalition of approximately 80 countries, including Western powers and Gulf Arab states, issued a joint statement at the United Nations demanding the urgent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The group condemned Iran and Houthi forces for disrupting international trade and energy security, with Bahrain's Foreign Minister reading the statement to assert that Iranian actions threaten navigational rights.

Diplomatic tensions peaked in New York during the UN General Assembly. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused US President Donald Trump of a "bullying mentality" and rejected threats of annihilation. Meanwhile, IRGC spokesman Hossein Mohbi stated that Iran has toughened its conditions for peace, claiming the country has consolidated its victory into a total deterrent force.

The conflict continues to impact global markets, driving Brent crude oil prices to approximately $106 per barrel. In Yemen, Houthi rebels have tightened their control over the Red Sea coastline and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, while a Saudi-led coalition reports intercepting six Houthi ballistic missiles.