Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran

Tehran, Aug 23: Iran's newly appointed top security official has warned neighbouring countries against joining the United States' campaign to squeeze Tehran's economy, threatening retaliation and saying their interests could become targets.

Mohsen Rezaei, the newly appointed head of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said Tehran could target oil-shipping routes outside the Strait of Hormuz if neighbouring countries participate in what Iran describes as an economic war against it.

Countries that join the US campaign would be considered enemies, Rezaei said, warning that Iran would “target their interests”, according to the Associated Press.

His remarks came after US President Donald Trump vowed to impose an “unprecedented” level of economic warfare and isolation on Iran, which has faced extensive US sanctions for years.

“If (Trump) wants to do something, we will retaliate in a seismic manner,” Rezaei said in an interview with Iran's state broadcaster IRIB that was aired on Saturday.

Rezaei also warned Washington against deploying additional military personnel to the region and accused the US of contributing to growing global nuclear insecurity.

He said Iran would make changes to its diplomatic approach and develop new capabilities in preparation for what he described as the next war.

The latest threats came amid continuing diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and potentially reviving negotiations between Washington and Tehran.

Egypt's foreign minister held discussions with his Iranian counterpart on efforts to restart US-Iran negotiations, while Iraq and Iran said Tehran had facilitated the passage of some Iraqi oil tankers through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

France and Saudi Arabia are also expected to discuss alternative shipping routes that could bypass the Strait of Hormuz.

Meanwhile, Israel carried out strikes in Syria and Gaza, adding to tensions across the wider Middle East.