WASHINGTON — The Pentagon says U.S. warships will continue to sail in the Persian Gulf despite an Iranian warning to stay away.

Pentagon press secretary George Little issued a written statement today saying that the U.S. Navy presence in the gulf is in compliance with international law. And he said it is intended to maintain what he called a “constant state of high vigilance” to ensure the flow of sea commerce.

Earlier today, Iran’s army chief warned an American aircraft carrier not to return to the gulf.

The U.S. Navy has said the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis and another vessel exited the gulf through the Strait of Hormuz a week ago. Iran has been holding naval exercises near the strait at the mouth of the gulf.