Iran’s Defense Council warned it will mine the entire Persian Gulf if the US attacks its coast or islands, escalating tensions over the Strait of Hormuz.
US Attempts to Reopen Strait of Hormuz
The United States is attempting to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for energy shipments, a vital waterway for roughly 20% of the world’s oil and gas. While Iran claims the strait remains open, it restricts access to US, Israeli, and allied vessels.
The US military could potentially launch a landing to occupy Iranian islands or territory to support efforts to open the strait, according to the Associated Press. Israel has also suggested its ground forces could participate in a potential conflict.
Escalating Rhetoric and Threats
Tehran’s warnings follow a weekend of escalating threats from both sides. President Trump threatened to “destroy” Iran’s energy infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz isn’t opened within 48 hours, a deadline that expired late Monday.
Iran’s Retaliation Threats
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated that if the US attacks Iranian energy infrastructure, Tehran will retaliate by targeting power plants supplying US bases in the region, as well as American-owned economic, industrial, and energy infrastructure. They asserted, “Do not doubt it, we will do it.”
The IRGC added that coordination with Iran is the “only way” for non-hostile nations to transit the Strait of Hormuz.
Targets Listed: Water Desalination Plants and Nuclear Facility
Iran’s Fars News Agency published a list of potential targets, including water desalination plants and the Barakah nuclear power plant in the United Arab Emirates, near the Saudi Arabian border.
Regional Infrastructure at Risk
Mohammed Bager Kalibaf, Iran’s parliamentary speaker, stated that in the event of an attack, Iran would consider key infrastructure throughout the region – including energy and water desalination facilities – as legitimate targets.
Trump’s Ultimatum Questioned
Former Iranian parliamentarian Ali Motahari suggested Trump’s 48-hour ultimatum regarding the Strait of Hormuz may be a “sort of deception” intended to justify actions against strategic locations. He believes the actual goal may be the “occupation of four islands, including the key island of Khark,” warning of “heavy losses” for the enemy.
Khark Island handles 90% of Iran’s oil exports.