Iran threatens to hit Gulf states if US launches new strikes as Hormuz talks continue: Report
Iran Threatens to Hit Gulf States Over U.S. Strike Plans
Bharatmorningnews.com – Iran threatens to hit Gulf states if Washington launches new military operations, according to five diplomatic sources. Tehran has warned neighboring Gulf countries that fresh American assaults on Iranian territory would trigger counterattacks targeting vital energy installations throughout the region. This strategic move aims to increase the financial and political burden on Washington by threatening its closest regional partners.
Diplomatic Outreach Following Trump’s Threat
The cautionary message arrived through numerous high-level conversations after President Donald Trump announced on July 28 his intention to target Iran’s energy sector and related infrastructure. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi engaged in discussions with officials from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Qatar, alongside Pakistan’s military leadership.
All participants requested anonymity given the delicate nature of these exchanges. A senior regional diplomat noted that Araqchi encouraged Washington’s Gulf allies to leverage their relationship with Trump to prevent additional military operations.
“We’re ready to retaliate, but finding a diplomatic solution is the best way to avoid wider escalation and destruction across the region,” Araqchi conveyed consistently throughout his conversations.
Gulf States Navigate Between Washington and Tehran
The diplomatic efforts highlight Iran’s strategy of using potential regional devastation as leverage against continued American pressure. Gulf nations hosting American military installations while relying heavily on energy exports now face competing demands from both powers.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held discussions with Trump, advocating for delayed military action, renewed negotiations, a ceasefire agreement, and a diplomatic resolution. The warning extended to all Gulf countries but was primarily communicated through Saudi Arabia and Qatar, nations with which Iran has improved relations in recent years.
“The Iranian warning was unequivocal: if America targeted Iran’s infrastructure, they would retaliate by striking Gulf energy facilities and other regional targets,” explained one Gulf source.
Regional Leaders Push for Diplomacy
Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia have collectively encouraged Washington to restart dialogue with Tehran and prevent renewed hostilities. A second Iranian official noted that Tehran warned additional American strikes could “turn the region into a fireball.”
On August 2, Trump announced his agreement to postpone the planned attack “subject to being able to rapidly make a deal.” Saudi Arabia emphasized that continued escalation would only increase destruction, prompting its call for diplomacy to succeed.
“Saudi Arabia believes further escalation will only bring more destruction,” stated the first Gulf source. “That is why it urged Trump to give diplomacy a chance.”
Historical Context and Future Demands
While advocating for peaceful solutions, Riyadh clarified it would mount a military response if attacked. Ali Shihabi, a Saudi analyst connected to the Royal Court, explained that the kingdom views proportionate military responses combined with sustained pressure on Iran in the Strait of Hormuz as the strongest path to diplomatic settlement.
Iran’s clerical leadership has consistently demanded the shutdown of American military bases in the Gulf region and requested that Gulf Arab nations cease intelligence sharing with Washington, which Tehran claims facilitates attacks against it.
“The enemy continues to threaten Iranian infrastructure. If Iran suffers damage, it will inflict far greater damage in return,” an Iranian official stated.
The official referenced Saudi Arabia’s 2019 Aramco facility attacks, when drone and missile strikes on Abqaiq and Khurais temporarily eliminated more than half the kingdom’s crude oil output, demonstrating Gulf energy infrastructure vulnerabilities.
According to one Iranian official, Tehran’s latest warning specified that any new American strike would trigger attacks on energy facilities, refineries, electricity grids, water systems, transport networks, and oil fields across the Gulf region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Iran threatening to do? Iran threatens to hit Gulf states if the United States launches new military strikes against Iranian territory. The retaliation would target energy infrastructure and other regional facilities.
Which Gulf countries are involved? Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and other Gulf nations are receiving warnings from Tehran. These countries host American military installations and rely heavily on energy exports.
When did Trump announce his intention to strike? President Trump announced on July 28 his intention to target Iran’s energy sector and related infrastructure. He later agreed to postpone the attack on August 2.
What infrastructure would be targeted? Iran’s warning specified attacks on energy facilities, refineries, electricity grids, water systems, transport networks, and oil fields across the Gulf region.