Iran Issues Stark Warning Over US Threats to Attack Power Plants
Iran has issued a severe warning to the United States, outlining four major retaliatory actions that will be taken if American forces carry out threats to strike Iranian power plants. The warning comes in response to statements from US President Donald Trump, who threatened attacks if Iran does not open the Strait of Hormuz by Monday.
Iran's Four-Point Retaliation Plan
According to military officials speaking through state television, Iran has prepared a comprehensive response plan should the United States attack its power infrastructure. Army spokesman Ebrahim Zolfaghari detailed the potential consequences during a broadcast, emphasizing that the Strait of Hormuz remains under Iranian control but is not fully closed to all traffic.
The four retaliatory measures include:
- Complete closure of the Strait of Hormuz until any damaged Iranian power plants are fully rebuilt and operational.
- Targeted strikes on Israel's power plants and critical energy and information technology infrastructure.
- Destruction of regional companies with significant American shareholder involvement.
- Attacks on power plants in countries that host US military bases, which Iran considers legitimate targets.
Strategic Control of the Strait of Hormuz
Zolfaghari clarified Iran's current position regarding the vital waterway, stating, "We have repeatedly said the Strait of Hormuz is closed only to the enemy and to harmful traffic. It has not yet been completely closed and is under our intelligent control, and harmless transit – under specific regulations that ensure our security and interests – is allowed."
The Strait of Hormuz represents one of the world's most critical energy corridors, with approximately one-fifth of global oil consumption passing through this narrow passage. Any complete closure would have immediate and severe consequences for international energy markets and regional stability.
Regional Escalation and Israeli Response
The Iranian warning comes amid heightened tensions throughout the Middle East. Israel's military reported conducting overnight strikes against Iranian weapons production sites and government infrastructure, targeting facilities linked to Iran's Defence Ministry and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps air force.
In response to previous Iranian missile launches, Israel has implemented sweeping emergency measures including a nationwide state of emergency declared by Defence Minister Israel Katz. These measures include banning public gatherings, closing schools and workplaces, moving hospital patients to underground facilities, and calling up tens of thousands of reservists to reinforce land borders.
Global Implications and Security Concerns
Iran's detailed warning signals the potential for significant escalation in the Persian Gulf region, raising serious concerns about the security of global energy supplies and the risk of wider conflict involving US allies. The situation represents one of the most dangerous confrontations between Iran and the United States in recent years, with both sides demonstrating willingness to engage in direct military action.
The international community is closely monitoring developments, particularly regarding the status of the Strait of Hormuz, as any disruption to shipping through this critical waterway would have immediate economic consequences worldwide. Regional stability hangs in the balance as diplomatic efforts continue behind the scenes to prevent further escalation.
