Dubai: Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned Tuesday that they would not allow any oil shipments from the Middle East if United States and Israeli attacks continue, sharply escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict.
The warning prompted a swift response from US President Donald Trump, who said Washington would launch far stronger strikes if Iran attempted to block oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz.
“We will hit them so hard that it will not be possible for them or anybody else helping them to ever recover that section of the world,” Trump said during a news conference.
The strategic Strait of Hormuz carries roughly one-fifth of global oil supply, making it one of the most critical energy routes in the world.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards insisted they would determine when the war ends. A spokesperson dismissed Trump’s remarks as “nonsense” and said Iran would respond firmly to continued attacks.
At the same time, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi ruled out renewed negotiations with Washington, citing what he called a “bitter experience” after previous talks collapsed when the United States launched military strikes.
Oil markets fluctuate as war expands and casualties mount
Despite escalating rhetoric, global oil prices dropped sharply Tuesday after surging a day earlier amid fears of supply disruptions.
Brent crude futures fell more than 10 percent after jumping as much as 29 percent to their highest levels since 2022. Meanwhile, global stock markets rebounded following Trump’s prediction that the war could end sooner than expected.
However, the conflict continues to cause widespread damage. Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations said at least 1,332 civilians have been killed and thousands injured since US and Israeli strikes began in late February.
Strikes have also hit domestic energy facilities in Iran, including an oil refinery that sent thick smoke across Tehran.
