Iran has "officially become the world's fourth superpower," declared Deputy Speaker of the Iranian Parliament Hamidreza Haji Babaei. He asserted that the Strait of Hormuz "forever belongs to the great nation of Iran," and no ship or oil tanker can pass through it without Tehran's permission. At the same time, Iranian military spokesman Mohammad Akraminia declared that "the enemy failed to achieve any of its goals" and suffered a "decisive defeat" in the war.

"Modern wars are primarily judged by the degree to which their stated objectives are achieved. Since the enemy has failed to achieve its stated objectives, it has suffered a decisive defeat and is being left behind." - said Akraminia.

These statements came amid escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf. The US had previously announced the end of Operation Epic Fury, but maintained the blockade of Iranian ports. In response, Iran bolstered its naval forces, including deploying a "mosquito fleet" of hundreds of speedboats hidden in bays and caves along the coast. Experts believe it was this tactic that allowed Tehran to maintain control of the strategic waterway.

Furthermore, Iranian commanders vowed to launch "heavy and decisive strikes" against American bases in the region and US Navy warships in retaliation for Washington's attacks on Iranian oil tankers. According to US Central Command, several tankers were damaged, and a major oil spill occurred in the area.