Comments follow reported threats linked to Gulf energy infrastructure
JERUSALEM: Bahraini political analyst Ahmed Alkhuzaie has described recent remarks by Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf as a “dangerous escalation in rhetoric,” according to an interview published by The Jerusalem Post.
Ghalibaf wrote on social media that if Iran could not sell its oil, “no one will sell oil,” adding that if Iran’s security was not guaranteed, “no infrastructure will be safe.” His comments came amid heightened regional tensions and continued exchanges between Iran and its adversaries.
The Jerusalem Post also reported claims that Iran had recently targeted civilian infrastructure in Kuwait and Bahrain. Those allegations, including reports concerning energy and commercial facilities, have not been independently verified, and Iranian authorities have not publicly commented on the specific claims.
Analyst urges caution in interpreting statements
Speaking to the newspaper, Alkhuzaie argued that Ghalibaf’s remarks appeared to broaden previous Iranian messaging by suggesting that regional infrastructure, rather than only US-linked assets, could be at risk during any future escalation.
However, the analyst also cautioned against interpreting the comments as confirmation of Tehran’s operational intentions. He said Iranian officials have, in his view, previously employed strong public statements to increase political and psychological pressure without necessarily acting on every threat.
Alkhuzaie characterised the remarks as part of what he described as a broader pattern of strategic messaging intended to project strength during periods of heightened confrontation.
Regional tensions remain elevated
The analyst urged Gulf states and their international partners to closely monitor developments while maintaining coordination on regional security.
He argued that governments should remain vigilant and continue efforts aimed at deterring further instability through cooperation and preparedness.
Neither Iranian officials nor independent international monitors have verified the broader allegations cited in the report. Meanwhile, tensions across the Gulf remain high as diplomatic efforts continue alongside ongoing military and political confrontations involving Iran, the United States and several regional actors.
