TEHRAN: Iran has issued one of its strongest warnings yet to the United States, declaring that any attempt to challenge its control over the Strait of Hormuz or launch further attacks on the country would cross a “red line” and trigger a powerful military response.
The warning comes as tensions between Tehran and Washington continue to escalate following renewed U.S. airstrikes on Iranian targets and President Donald Trump’s threat to intensify military action if Iran refuses to change its course. Iranian military officials said the country would defend its sovereignty and strategic interests “until the end.”
Brigadier General Mohammad Akraminia, a senior Iranian military spokesperson, said recent U.S. strikes near the Strait of Hormuz would not weaken Iran’s ability to control the vital waterway. He warned that if the United States attacks Iran’s power plants, bridges or other key infrastructure, Tehran would retaliate by targeting “all remaining infrastructure” linked to U.S. interests across the region.
Iran also warned neighboring Gulf countries against allowing their military bases or territory to be used for future U.S. operations, saying any country assisting attacks on Iran could become a legitimate target. The statement reflects growing concerns that the conflict could spread beyond Iran and the United States to involve other countries in the Middle East.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes, carrying nearly one-fifth of global oil exports. Any disruption to shipping through the narrow waterway could send international oil prices higher and create fresh uncertainty in global energy markets. Recent military activity has already reduced commercial shipping traffic through the strait and increased insurance costs for vessels operating in the Gulf.
President Trump has maintained that the United States will continue military operations if necessary to protect international shipping and regional allies. His administration has expanded airstrikes against Iranian military facilities while increasing its naval presence in the Gulf, raising fears of a broader regional confrontation.
Despite the exchange of threats, analysts say diplomatic channels remain open after Iran released a U.S. citizen in what Trump described as a “gesture of goodwill.” However, experts warn that unless both sides return to negotiations, the risk of a wider conflict involving the Strait of Hormuz will remain high.
