Iran Threatens Full-Force Retaliation Against US Attack
Iran has issued a stern warning to the United States following attacks on southern Iranian territory on Tuesday night (7/7) local time. Tehran has asserted that it will deliver what it describes as a devastating response to the military action.
The attacks occurred while Iran and the United States were in a period of ceasefire, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) intended to end the conflict. Through the Khatam Al Anbiya Central Headquarters, the Iranian military emphasised that it would not allow the attacks to pass without a response.
“The Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran will provide a devastating response to the aggression and terrorist actions of the United States,” stated Iran’s Supreme Joint Military Command, as reported by the state television station IRIB on Wednesday (8/scale).
In addition to condemning the US attacks, Khatam Al Anbiya also reaffirmed Iran’s stance regarding the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy trade and shipping routes. The command added that Iran would under no circumstances permit interference in the management or affairs of the Strait of Hormuz.
The command further emphasised that the only safe route for vessels traversing the Strait of Hormuz is the route established by Iran.
On the other hand, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the military operation was conducted in response to a series of attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz region. CENTCOM stated it launched large-scale strikes against Iran to impose heavy consequences for the targeting and attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz over recent days.
This rising tension occurs despite both nations having previously agreed to a ceasefire and signed an MoU as part of efforts to end the war. Meanwhile, verified video footage shows explosions and flames at several strategic locations in Iran, including the city of Bandar Abbas, Sirik Port, and Qeshm Island. Recent developments also indicate that explosions were reported on Kharg Island, a primary hub for Iranian oil exports. The island, located approximately eight kilometres from the Iranian coast, plays a vital role in the national economy as it handles around 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports.
The 14-point agreement between Iran and the United States came into effect on 18 June after being electronically signed by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and US President Donald Trump.
The Iranian military has also reportedly shot down an American MQ-9 drone. The US targeted air defence systems, coastal surveillance systems, ground-to-air missile installations, anti-ship cruise missile launch points, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Former CENTCOM Commander Kenneth McKenzie has urged the US to relocate military bases from the Persian Gulf further west due to the threat of Iranian missiles and drones. Furthermore, the escalation of US and Iranian military actions follows missile attacks in the Strait of Hormuz and Bahrain, threatening regional diplomacy and the ceasefire process. Global oil prices rose by 1 per cent today, triggered by the heating tensions between Iran and the US following US strikes on ships violating Iranian port blockades.