Iran accuses US of admitting “piracy”, urges UN action

Iran has accused the United States of openly admitting to “piracy” following US President Trump’s remarks regarding the seizure of Iranian ships during maritime operations. According to Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei, Trump allegedly characterised the seizure of Iranian vessels in a way that amounts to an admission of unlawful behaviour at sea. Baqaei claimed the US president had referred to such actions in terms that included the phrase “we act like pirates,” which is a serious confirmation of illegal conduct. He further said these statements should be seen as an open acknowledgement of wrongdoing and urged the global community, United Nations member states, and the UN Secretary-General to reject any effort aimed at normalising breaches of international maritime law. The exchange comes at a time of rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where increased US naval activity and repeated Iranian warnings have added to regional instability amid broader geopolitical strains. Iranian supertanker evades US blockade, reaches Asia-Pacific