New Delhi, May 20 -- A fresh flashpoint is emerging in West Asia as Iran moves to tighten its grip over the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategic maritime chokepoints.

Iran has warned that it will "open new fronts" against the United States with "new equipment and new methods" if Washington resumes military attacks. Tehran has also announced the creation of the Persian Gulf Strait Authority to regulate activity in the Strait of Hormuz, including oversight of fibre-optic cables passing through the route.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran remains deeply sceptical of diplomatic engagement with the United States, citing Washington's past record in negotiations.

Meanwhile, the United States has ...