Iran on Saturday issued a strong warning to the United States, vowing a “decisive response” if Washington continues what it described as “blockade, piracy and maritime robbery” in the Gulf region, particularly over the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian state media Press TV reported.The statement was issued by Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, the country’s highest operational military command responsible for coordinating between the Iranian army and the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC).In its warning, the headquarters said the US would face consequences if it persisted with its actions in regional waters. “Should the aggressor US military persist in blockade, piracy, and maritime robbery in the region, it can be certain that it will face a decisive response from Iran’s powerful armed forces,” the statement read.It further claimed that Iran’s armed forces were currently at a higher level of readiness and deterrence capability than ever before, asserting preparedness to defend national sovereignty and strategic interests.“The US must recognise that the armed forces of the Iran possess greater authority and readiness than ever before to defend national sovereignty, territory and interests,” the statement added. The headquarters said Iranian forces were closely monitoring regional movements, including activities in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.