Sayyari: Iran powerful enough to close Hormuz Strait

Tehran, Nov 30, IRNA Commander of the Islamic Republic Army's Navy Force Rear Admiral
Habibollah Sayyari said here that the Iranian Navy is capable of
blocking the Hormuz Strait.

"Iran's Navy Force is powerful enough to block the Hormuz Strait in
the Persian Gulf. Anybody doubting this is advised to go into action
to accept the reality," Sayyari told IRNA on Navy Day.

Iran has warned that in case of an attack against its nuclear
installation, it would not hesitate to take necessary measures to
protect itself -- including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Italian Navy Vice Admiral Maurizio Gemignani had said Tuesday that the
threat of closing the Persian Gulf waterway is merely a 'fantasy'.

Asked whether Islamic Republic Army Navy Force had adopted any measure
with respect to the stationing of the US army's fifth base in Bahrain
and its proximity to Iran's Asalouyeh facilities and Bushehr Nuclear
Power Plant, Sayyari said necessary arrangements have been made.

"Certainly, we have tactical options and have taken necessary
precautions to protect our facilities and interests in any region of
the Persian Gulf. It is not important for us where enemy base is
located. We have necessary readiness to counter any threat," said the
commander.

End