Iran has warned that the Middle East risks being engulfed in the “flames of war” as reports suggest the United States and Israel may be preparing new strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure. Tehran says its armed forces have already prepared retaliation plans targeting strategic sites linked to the US and its allies if further attacks take place.
Iran warns neighbouring countries
Major General Ali Abdollahi, head of Iran’s wartime military command, accused the United States of escalating the conflict and urged regional countries to reconsider cooperation with Washington.
He warned that nations allowing their territory or infrastructure to support US military operations could face the consequences of a wider regional conflict.
“Any country that makes itself a defensive shield for the aggressor America will burn in the fire of war,” Abdollahi said.
Retaliation plan reportedly ready
Iranian state linked media reported that the country’s armed forces have prepared a comprehensive response in the event of attacks on civilian infrastructure, including power plants and petrochemical facilities.
The warning follows media reports in the United States suggesting Washington and Israel are considering strikes that could disrupt Iran’s electricity network and energy sector. US President Donald Trump has not officially confirmed any such operation.
Fighting spreads across the region
The conflict has continued to intensify across the Middle East.
Kuwait’s military said it intercepted and destroyed multiple Iranian drones after they entered the country’s airspace, while maritime authorities reported that two commercial vessels were struck near the coast of Oman.
Iran also claimed that several ships were forced to alter course near the Strait of Hormuz as tensions around one of the world’s busiest energy corridors continue to rise.
Meanwhile, Israeli military operations continued in southern Lebanon, while attacks were also reported in Iraq involving armed groups aligned with Tehran.
Strait of Hormuz remains key pressure point
Iran has reiterated that it intends to retain the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic lever during the conflict.
Senior Iranian officials warned that continued military action and pressure on the waterway could have serious consequences for global energy markets and international shipping.
The Strait of Hormuz carries a significant share of the world’s oil exports, making any disruption a major concern for global markets.
Iran leaves door open for diplomacy
Despite its warnings, Tehran said diplomatic channels have not been completely closed.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry said indirect messages continue to be exchanged through mediators, although officials denied requesting direct negotiations with Washington.
Senior Iranian leaders also indicated that while the country believes it has achieved military successes, those gains must ultimately be secured through a political settlement.
The conflict, which began earlier this year, has expanded well beyond Iran and Israel, raising concerns that further escalation could draw additional countries into a broader regional war.