Tehran: Iran has issued a strong warning that no country in the Gulf region will be allowed to export oil if Tehran is prevented from selling its own crude, signalling a further escalation in tensions with the United States over the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran’s Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the situation in the strategically important waterway would not return to prewar conditions, adding that lasting security in the region could only be achieved without the presence of American forces. He described the conflict as an “all or none” situation and warned that if Iran’s security was threatened, regional infrastructure would also remain at risk.
The remarks followed a stern warning from US President Donald Trump, who said the United States would destroy a bridge or power plant every time Iran attacks a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz using missiles, rockets, drones or any other weapon.
The exchange came as the US military confirmed it had carried out a twelfth consecutive night of airstrikes against targets in Iran. According to American officials, the operations are intended to weaken Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping and restore safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital energy corridors.
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, there has been little indication of a breakthrough, with both sides maintaining firm positions. The continued conflict has disrupted international shipping, raised concerns over global energy supplies and pushed fuel prices higher, increasing pressure on economies worldwide.
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said the country would follow an “eye for an eye” defence policy, warning that any attack on Iranian territory or infrastructure would be met with a powerful response.
Iranian media reported missile strikes near Ahvaz, Ramshir and Andimeshk in western Iran, while two people were reportedly killed in Shalamcheh near the Iraqi border. Kuwait also announced that its air defence systems intercepted hostile drones following what it described as Iranian attacks.
Iran has also targeted energy facilities and desalination plants in neighbouring Gulf countries, further heightening regional tensions and raising concerns over the widening scope of the conflict.
