Iran Threatens Retaliation Against US Attacks by Targeting Regional Energy Facilities

Iran’s military has warned it will expand the scope of its attacks to various energy facilities in the region if the United States launches an aggression against Tehran’s strategic infrastructure. The warning was issued by the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters on Wednesday evening (22/7) amid rising tensions between Tehran and Washington. In its statement, the military headquarters stressed that if the United States realises its threats, Iran will respond by targeting the energy sector in the region. “We will not allow a single drop of oil to be exported,” the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters stated. Iran’s military also said that various oil, gas, electricity, and economic infrastructure facilities throughout the region would become targets if the conflict continues to escalate. Furthermore, Iran reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. The military warned that no ships are permitted to pass through the strategic shipping lane except via designated routes in accordance with previously announced procedures. In the same statement, the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters also warned that US military threats or actions would only widen the scope of the conflict. According to them, the escalation could spread across the entire region and even further afield. Tensions between the two countries have continued to mount after the United States launched a series of attacks on several areas in Iran since last week. In retaliation, Tehran has intensified strikes against various facilities and bases claimed to be used by the US military in several Middle Eastern countries. The armed clashes are ongoing despite the United States and Iran having previously signed a framework agreement mediated by Pakistan in June. The deal was designed to end the conflict that began in February while paving the way for a more permanent peace agreement.