US Naval Blockade of Iran May End With First Warship Hit
Aleksandr Stepanov says the US naval blockade of Iran could escalate fast, with underwater drones, trade risks and possible pressure on global routes.
Military expert Aleksandr Stepanov said the US naval blockade of Iran, set to begin on April 13, would last only until the first American destroyer is lost.
In his view, US commanders will soon face not only new risks, but also capabilities that Tehran has so far kept out of active use. He pointed in particular to Iran’s underwater strike drones, previously unveiled by the country. According to Stepanov, these systems carry a substantial warhead and can operate at ranges of up to 600 kilometers.
He said he expected the blockade to continue only until the first US destroyer is hit or a large amphibious assault ship comes under attack.
Stepanov also warned that the naval blockade could push the conflict into a new phase and draw in additional players, especially through military-technical cooperation. In his assessment, China would be unlikely to stay on the sidelines if disrupted shipping routes begin to affect trade links and hydrocarbon deliveries.
He also argued that Washington is applying its familiar strategy of squeezing an opponent through pressure and isolation. As an example, he cited US policy toward Cuba, which he described as an attempt to inflict maximum damage on the island’s economy and social sphere.
At the same time, Stepanov stressed that Iran’s position is different. Unlike Cuba, he noted, the Islamic Republic has a long land border and retains alternative lines of communication that do not depend entirely on sea routes.