Iran Threatens Strait of Hormuz, Gulf Oil Flow Amid US Tensions

Iran dramatically widened its threats against the United States and regional allies Wednesday, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warning it would sever Gulf oil flow and target energy and economic infrastructure across the Middle East if Washington launches strikes on Iranian soil. The escalating rhetoric marks a significant expansion of the potential conflict zone beyond traditional military targets.

Iran's IRGC Navy declared "absolute control" over the Strait of Hormuz — the chokepoint through which a significant share of the world's oil supply flows — and put commercial shipping on notice. Vessels seeking alternative routes, the IRGC warned, would face "serious and irreparable consequences," a threat that sent immediate ripples through energy markets and raised alarms among shipping operators globally.

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On the civilian infrastructure front, Iran's Revolutionary Guard threatened to retaliate against any attack on its bridges or power plants by cutting electricity to US regional allies — a stark signal that Tehran is prepared to punish neighboring governments perceived as aligned with Washington. Arab media reports of explosions in Kuwait added to the regional unease, though no confirmed link to the escalating standoff has been established.

President Trump, facing domestic political headwinds including gasoline prices climbing back above $4.00 per gallon and US personnel at risk in the region, reposted pointed commentary on TruthSocial as Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu was reported to be heading to Washington. Iran's top joint military command responded directly, stating that repeated US threats would only "lead to expansion of war in the region and beyond" — leaving analysts struggling to identify any clear diplomatic off-ramp.

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