US military commanders warned President Trump that Iran could retaliate in the event of a conflict in 2026, according to information obtained by GFdaily. The warning, delivered in recent briefings, stressed that heightened tensions and potential Iranian retaliation could prolong the fighting and destabilize global markets and geopolitical stability.
The warning's context
The warning was framed around a hypothetical 2026 conflict scenario, though officials did not specify the exact trigger or nature of the confrontation. Commanders told Trump that any military engagement with Iran would carry a high risk of retaliation, including possible attacks on US allies, energy infrastructure, or shipping lanes in the Persian Gulf. The assessment drew on intelligence indicating that Iran has developed a range of asymmetric capabilities designed to strike beyond its borders.
Potential retaliation scenarios
According to the warning, Iranian retaliation could take several forms. Cyberattacks on US financial systems or critical infrastructure were cited as a likely response. The commanders also pointed to the possibility of proxy forces in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen launching strikes against US personnel or partner forces. A prolonged conflict, they said, would strain US military resources and could draw in other regional actors, escalating into a broader war.
The warning highlighted that a drawn-out conflict with Iran would roil global oil markets, potentially sending prices sharply higher. The Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for about a fifth of the world's petroleum, could be disrupted. That would have immediate knock-on effects on stock markets, supply chains, and energy-dependent economies. The commanders also noted that geopolitical instability could undermine confidence in the US dollar and trigger capital flight from emerging markets.
The White House did not respond to requests for comment. The Pentagon declined to discuss the specifics of any presidential briefings. The warning comes as the administration weighs its approach to Iran, including possible diplomatic overtures and renewed sanctions. No decision has been announced on how to address the risks outlined by the commanders.
