Iran Expands Threats, Not Just Military but Also US Bondholders

Tensions in the Middle East are intensifying as the conflict enters its fourth week. Iran, the United States (US), and Israel are now exchanging increasingly broad threats. Quoting CNBC on Monday (23/3/2026), Iran is not only targeting military objectives but is also beginning to reference the financial sector. Iran’s Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that financial institutions connected to the US and holding US government bonds could become targets. “Anyone who buys them is prepared to face attacks on their offices and assets,” said Ghalibaf. He added that, besides military bases, financial institutions funding the US military budget are also considered legitimate targets. This statement comes after US President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran on Saturday (21/3/2026). The ultimatum deadline is scheduled to end on Monday evening Washington time. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that his country will support US actions. He emphasised coordination between the two countries in confronting Iran. “Whatever we do, we do it together,” Netanyahu said while inspecting the site of an Iranian missile attack in the southern Israeli city of Arad. He also urged other countries, including those in Europe, to get involved. According to him, Iran’s capabilities could reach wider areas and pose a threat to many countries. Ghalibaf emphasised that any attack on Iran’s power plants would be immediately retaliated against with strikes on oil and energy facilities in the region. He warned that the impacts could be significant and long-lasting, including driving up global oil prices.