Iranian Envoy Accuses US of Piracy Over Naval Blockade at United Nations

Iran's UN envoy, Amir Saeid Iravani, directly accused the United States of acting like pirates due to its ongoing naval blockade. The accusation was made during a diplomatic session at the United Nations on April 28, 2026. Iravani stated that Tehran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz were 'grounded in Iran's right and obligation under the law of the sea and its national laws and regulations.' The United States has been accused of maintaining a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments. Iran's stance is that its actions are lawful and necessary to protect its sovereignty. The United States has not publicly responded to the specific accusation of piracy, though it has previously criticized Iran's actions in the region. The event highlights the ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States in the Persian Gulf. The accusation of piracy adds a new dimension to the diplomatic conflict, which has been marked by mutual accusations and sanctions. The United Nations has not taken a formal stance on the matter, leaving the dispute to continue in diplomatic channels.