In a stern warning, Iranian military officials have declared their intention to annihilate the region’s infrastructure if the United States conducts strikes against Iranian power stations. According to reports, the spokesperson for the Iranian command, Ebrahim Zolfaqari, emphasized that any retaliatory strikes would be “more intense, extensive, and destructive than ever before.” He asserted that Iran would not allow US interference in the Strait of Hormuz, which he described as Iran’s “unalterable red line.”
This declaration from the commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya base came shortly after former President Donald Trump hinted at expanding US military strikes to include power facilities and bridges if Tehran failed to return to negotiations. This warning was made during an interview with Fox News just two days prior.
In a related development, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported on July 16 that US military forces have continued to target Iranian positions, marking the sixth wave of attacks in just six days. The objective of these strikes has been stated as further weakening Iran’s military capabilities.
Background
- The active phase of conflict between Iran and the US began on February 28 of this year, when US and Israeli airstrikes resulted in the deaths of several high-ranking Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
- On April 12, Trump announced a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by US naval forces. A ceasefire and negotiations regarding Tehran’s nuclear program were agreed upon on May 28. However, by July 8, Trump declared the ceasefire over after renewed exchanges of fire between the two nations.
- On July 12, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, prompting Trump to reiterate in a phone interview that the strait remained open.
