Iran has warned the United States over its ongoing maritime blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Iranian media reports on Monday.
Iran's main military command, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, accused the United States of escalating regional instability and warned that any U.S. threats would be met with forceful response from Iran's armed forces.
The Iranian statement came as reports revealed that Washington continued to impose illegal maritime blockades on Iran, and over the past three days, U.S. maritime actions have threatened shipping of commercial vessels and oil tankers near Iran's coastal waters and territorial seas.
Iranian authorities said that the U.S. attempts would be treated as an expansion of regional warfare.
U.S. Central Command confirmed on the same day that U.S. naval forces had recently compelled 17 commercial vessels to alter their courses, disabled two ships, and boarded two others for inspection.
The United States resumed its maritime blockade of ships traveling to and from Iranian ports and coastal areas at 16:00 Eastern Time on July 14.
Previously, from April 13 to June 18, the U.S. military had also imposed a naval blockade on Iran.
Iran issues warning to US amid Strait of Hormuz tensions
China is welcoming an influx of international travelers this summer, drawn by its rich cultural offerings and streamlined customs clearance policies, as the country braces for peak tourist season.
Since the start of summer vacation, scenic spots across Guizhou Province, southwest China, have rolled out premium itineraries that are drawing large numbers of international tourists.
Attractions such as the Wumeng Grasslands, Yeyuhai, and Shuicheng Ancient Town in Guizhou have become popular destinations for international tourists during the summer season, offering leisure and cultural experiences.
"I chose this place for my summer vacation because it's not very hot. The weather is very cool and comfortable," said Max Slonim, a U.S. tourist.
In Shanghai, many foreign tourists visited the Yu Garden to explore classical garden architecture, sample local street food, and experience traditional Chinese culture.
Xiaolongbao (steamed buns), lotus root pastries, and Chinese teas have become must-try delicacies for them.
The Sinan Mansions complex hosts a signature farm market alongside performance stages, themed art exhibitions, and a summer greenhouse. Meanwhile, the Museum of Art Pudong has launched several artists' debut exhibitions in China, drawing art enthusiasts from around the world who make special trips to Shanghai.
"You can find something new and fresh in Shanghai as well and the museum here is very well," said a French tourist.
From traditional souvenirs like silk and tea to smart devices and tech products, with the promotion of tax-free shopping for outbound travelers and more convenient payment methods, an increasing number of foreign tourists are experiencing the convenience of shopping in China.
In the first half of this year, Beijing Customs processed over 110,000 tax refund applications for departing travelers, with the total value of refunded goods exceeding 900 million yuan (about 132.9 million U.S. dollars), up 567.7 percent and 49.67 percent year on year, respectively.
"We can also put the cards on your phone. So, it's easy and you don't have to worry about any extra change or anything. So, it's very straightforward," said Kimaya Nguyen, an overseas tourist.
In north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, international flights from Thailand, Malaysia, and other countries have been arriving one after another in recent days, with the number of overseas summer vacationers steadily increasing.
At Ordos Ejin Horo International Airport, inbound tourists are able to complete customs clearance quickly by submitting declarations online in advance.
With the extension of the China-Russia mutual visa-free arrangement, cross-border tourism continues to surge.
Inner Mongolia's Manzhouli Customs has implemented convenient measures such as appointment-based clearance and expedited inspections for group travelers, including study tours and one-day tour groups, to ensure smooth border clearance.
In the first half of this year, 341,400 passengers crossed the border via the Manzhouli land port, up 64.44 percent year on year.
China's cultural charm, scenic spots draw int'l tourists
