Iran warned on Monday that if its coastal area or islands are attacked, it will mine the strategic communication routes of the Persian Gulf. Iran's National Defense Council said that any attempt to target its territory would result in the mining of "all communication lines" in the Persian Gulf, and added that ships would only be able to cross the Strait of Hormuz in cooperation with Tehran.

The statement said that "any attempt by the enemy to attack Iranian shores or islands would naturally, and according to general military principles, fill all routes and communication lines to the Persian Gulf and shores with various types of naval mines, including floating mines that can be launched from the shores."

"In that case, the entire Persian Gulf would practically become a situation like the Strait of Hormuz for a long time, this time, along with the Strait of Hormuz, the entire Persian Gulf would be practically blocked, and the responsibility would fall on the threatening party."

Meanwhile, the United States is reportedly considering plans to seize or blockade Iran's strategically important island of Kharg in order to pressure Tehran to reopen the vital route, a move that could significantly escalate US-Israel tensions. The warning comes amid heightened rhetoric after US President Donald Trump threatened to attack Iranian infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened. Kharg Island is a key center from which a large portion of Iran's oil exports pass.

Also, Iran has allowed China, India, and Pakistan to provide a safe route for their ships through the Strait of Hormuz. However, it has effectively restricted access by targeting ships and reportedly laying mines in the waterway, creating a major obstacle in global energy markets.

Meanwhile, Iranian authorities said that at least six people were killed in two attacks on the city of Tabriz, while Lebanon's national news agency reported the death of a civilian in an air strike in the Taair neighborhood.

Amid the escalating crisis, global markets have shown volatility, with spot gold prices falling 6 percent to $4,214.89 per ounce, marking the ninth consecutive session of losses.