Tehran: The top commander of Iran’s Quds Force announced that a ‘new security belt’ will stretch from the Strait of Hormuz to Bab al-Mandab, extending from the Gulf to the Red Sea.

According to Anadolu Agency, Esmail Qaani stated that recent actions by allied groups in the region indicated increasing coordination within what Iran calls the ‘resistance front.’ Qaani highlighted the ‘timely and powerful action of heroic Yemen’ as evidence of the resistance front’s wisdom, suggesting further collaboration if necessary.

Qaani issued a warning regarding Israeli and US actions in the region, indicating that such provocations would elicit a response from allied groups. He emphasized that fighters aligned with the resistance front were strategically positioned near vital maritime chokepoints, ready to respond to continued aggression.

The statements were made amidst heightened regional tensions following a recent escalation between Iran and Israel and ongoing hostilities in Lebanon. The situation intensified when Israel bombed Beirut, leading Iran to retaliate with missile launches toward northern Israel.

In response to the escalation, Israel conducted several airstrikes against Iran, with Tehran retaliating with further missile launches. Iran announced a temporary halt to attacks on Israel, warning of a ‘crushing’ response if Israeli actions against Lebanon persisted.

Israeli media reported that Israel agreed to cease airstrikes on Iran but would continue military operations in southern Lebanon. The region remains tense after US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran in late February, which spurred Iranian retaliation. A ceasefire reached on April 8 stalled due to disputes over its implementation and ongoing regional developments.