07:32 PM EDT, 04/30/2026 (MT Newswires) -- Iran's supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei said Thursday the United States had suffered a "disgraceful defeat," rejecting Donald Trump's warning that a naval blockade could remain in place for months, AFP reported.

Oil prices briefly surged to a four-year high amid escalating tensions before easing, as Iran maintained control over shipping in the Strait of Hormuz following the outbreak of conflict in February.

In a statement read on state television, Khamenei said a "new chapter" was unfolding for the Persian Gulf and claimed regional powers no longer needed outside intervention, warning foreign actors had "no place" in the region.

The US imposed a blockade on Iranian ports two weeks ago and is now working to build an international coalition to ensure safe passage through Hormuz while sustaining pressure on Tehran, a State Department official told AFP.