Tensions between Iran and the United States have sharply escalated after Tehran issued a strong warning of possible retaliation if Washington resumes military attacks, deepening fears of a broader conflict in the Gulf region.
According to ma report by the REUTERS, Iran on Thursday warned that any renewed U.S. aggression would trigger what it described as “long and painful strikes” targeting American positions across the region, signaling a dangerous turn in the ongoing standoff.
The warning comes amid a prolonged crisis over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route that remains largely closed, cutting off about 20 percent of the world’s oil and gas supply and pushing energy prices to alarming levels.
Despite a ceasefire announced on April 8, diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict have stalled, with Iran maintaining its blockade of the waterway in response to a U.S. naval clampdown on its oil exports—Tehran’s economic lifeline.
U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly considering fresh military options, including new strikes aimed at forcing Iran back to the negotiating table. The development has heightened global anxiety, with oil prices briefly surging above $120 per barrel before easing slightly amid market volatility.
Meanwhile, Iran’s leadership has doubled down on its position. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei signaled that Tehran intends to maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz, describing foreign presence in the waterway as unacceptable and vowing to counter what he called external interference.
Security concerns are also mounting within the region. Air defence systems were reportedly activated in parts of Tehran following suspected drone activity, while the United Arab Emirates has urged its citizens to avoid travel to Iran, Lebanon, and Iraq due to rising instability.
Global leaders are increasingly worried about the economic fallout of the crisis. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that prolonged disruption in the Gulf could slow global growth, fuel inflation, and push millions more people into poverty.
REUTERS