Iranian Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf warned that Tehran would retaliate against Gulf energy assets and could disrupt the Strait of Hormuz, a threat that follows US strikes on Iranian tankers and a warning from US Defense Secretary Hegseth.
The warning from Tehran
Ghalibaf's statement did not specify which energy assets might be targeted. He said Iran would not stand by after the attacks on its tankers. He also raised the possibility of closing the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway that carries a significant portion of the world's oil. The strait is a chokepoint for crude shipments from the Gulf region.
US strikes and Hegseth's warning
The US military carried out strikes on Iranian tankers, according to the facts. The strikes were followed by a warning from Defense Secretary Hegseth, who addressed the tanker situation. Ghalibaf's threat came in response to both the strikes and Hegseth's warning. The sequence suggests a rapid escalation between Washington and Tehran.
What's at stake in the Strait
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow passage between Iran and Oman. It's a critical route for oil exports from the Gulf. Any disruption would likely send energy prices higher and could trigger a broader conflict. The threat alone raises the stakes for the region.
Next steps
The US has not yet responded to Ghalibaf's warning. It's unclear whether Washington will take further military action or seek a diplomatic path. No date has been set for any further talks, and the US has not publicly responded to Ghalibaf's remarks.
