Iran Warns US of Retaliation Amid Gulf Tensions

Iran has issued a warning regarding potential retaliation against American facilities in the Gulf region if the US continues to strike Iranian assets. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf stated that US oil and gas companies in the area are at risk, emphasizing the vulnerability of the region's production infrastructure.

This warning follows remarks from senior Iranian security official Mohsen Rezaei, who announced that Tehran would establish a new restricted zone in the Gulf, which would extend from the end of the US naval blockade and impose sanctions on vessels entering it. The recent exchange of strikes resumed hostilities after a ceasefire breakdown, with US forces targeting three Iranian oil tankers, including one near Kharg Island.

The conflict has significantly slowed shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, which is crucial for global oil and gas shipments. The situation has also affected Gulf Arab states, prompting the UAE to seek alternative export routes to safeguard its energy trade.