Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council, in his latest remarks, referring to Iran's geopolitical position, claimed that Tehran has powerful strategic tools for deterrence even without possessing nuclear weapons.

Medvedev said that instead of relying on a real nuclear weapon, Iran uses the sensitive location of the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic lever; a passage that plays a vital role in global energy trade and any tension there could have far-reaching consequences for the economy and international security.

He also pointed to the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, stating that this waterway also has high geopolitical importance and, along with the Strait of Hormuz, gives Iran a significant capacity to exert influence in regional and international equations.

In his remarks, Medvedev emphasized that these strategic crossings, in his view, play a deterrent role and can, in some circumstances, have an effect equivalent to military deterrence.

The remarks of this senior Russian official come at a time when tensions in the Middle East continue and the issue of the security of sea routes and international shipping is considered one of the most important axes of developments in the region.