‘Not A Single Litre Of Oil’: Iran Warns Of Blocking Strait Of Hormuz For US And Israel

Tensions in the Middle East have sharply intensified after Iran warned that it would not allow oil shipments to reach the United States, Israel, or their allies through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

The statement signals a major escalation in the ongoing conflict in the region, raising concerns about global energy security and international shipping routes.

Iran Warns Of Blocking Oil Shipments

Iranian military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaqari, representing the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, announced that Tehran would no longer follow its earlier approach of limited retaliation.

According to Zolfaqari, Iran will now adopt a strategy described as "strike upon strike."
He warned that Iran would not allow "even a single litre of oil" to pass through the Strait of Hormuz if the shipment is destined for the United States, Israel, or their partners. Any oil tanker or vessel heading toward those countries could be treated as a legitimate military target, he said.

Oil Prices Could Surge, Iran Warns

Iranian officials also warned that the conflict could cause a sharp increase in global oil prices.

Zolfaqari said disruptions in regional security could push oil prices as high as $200 per barrel, emphasising that energy markets are closely linked to stability in the Middle East.
The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the most important oil transit routes in the world, carrying a significant portion of global crude oil shipments every day.

Israel Launches New Strikes

The warning came as Israel announced a large wave of military strikes targeting infrastructure linked to Iran and its regional allies.

According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the strikes targeted facilities belonging to the militant group Hezbollah and other assets connected to Iran.
Israeli forces also carried out attacks in Beirut as part of the expanding military operations in the region.

IRGC Claims Missile Attacks On US-Linked Targets

Iran's powerful military force, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), said it had launched the 38th phase of its military operations against American and allied positions.

According to the IRGC, two missiles were fired at the Adiri helicopter base in northern Kuwait, reportedly injuring around 100 people who were later taken to hospitals including Al Jaber and Al Mubarak for treatment.

The group also claimed responsibility for missile and drone strikes on an American base at Mina Salman port in Bahrain.

Other alleged targets included:

• Camp Patriot
• Facilities near the Mohammed Al Ahmad naval base
• Ali Al Salem naval base in Kuwait
• Warehouses used by US forces in the region

Iran Threatens Economic Targets

Iran has also indicated that its retaliation may extend beyond military sites.
Zolfaqari warned that banks linked to the United States and Israel operating in the region could become targets, especially after Iran accused its adversaries of attacking a bank within the country.

Iran's state news agency Islamic Republic News Agency reported that civilians were advised to stay at least one kilometre away from banks connected to the US or Israel, as they could be potential targets.

State media also reported that a building linked to Sepah Bank in Tehran had been targeted earlier. Service disruptions were also reported at Sepah Bank and Bank Melli Iran.

Global Concerns Over Strait Of Hormuz Security

The latest developments have raised serious concerns about the safety of the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea.
Nearly one-quarter of the world's oil supply passes through this strategic route every day. Any disruption in the strait could significantly affect global energy markets, shipping routes, and international trade.

With military activity continuing in the region, analysts warn that the situation could further escalate, potentially impacting oil prices and global economic stability.