Iran Warns of ‘Long and Painful’ Strikes if US Resumes Attacks Amid Strait of Hormuz Blockade

Iran has declared it will launch prolonged and severe strikes against US positions across the Gulf if Washington renews military attacks. The announcement comes amid an ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil and gas supplies.

The closure of the strait, which accounts for 20% of the world’s energy exports, has sent oil prices soaring and raised fears of a global economic downturn. Despite a ceasefire since April 8, diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan have stalled, with Iran maintaining its blockade in response to a US naval embargo on its ports.

Strait of Hormuz: The Heart of the Conflict

Two months into the US-Israel war on Iran, the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, severely disrupting the flow of oil and gas worldwide. Iran insists the blockade is a legitimate defense of its rights as a coastal state, accusing the US of exploiting the waterway for its own interests.

This is because of the war and the defence of our right – that is, according to international law, it is legitimate, legal, and accepted.—Esmaeil Baghaei, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman

Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also justified attacks on US assets in Gulf countries, condemning regional cooperation with foreign forces during Ramadan as unjust and a permanent grievance.

Regional Reactions: Heightened Security and Diplomatic Strains

The United Arab Emirates has banned travel to Iran, Lebanon, and Iraq, urging citizens to leave these countries immediately. UAE officials expressed distrust toward Iran’s unilateral actions following its aggression in the Gulf.

Bahraini King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa condemned Iran’s threats against Manama, accusing Tehran of undermining security and stability. The king warned of severe penalties for internal collaborators and called for parliamentary cleansing of those supporting enemies.

Uncertainty Over US Military Plans

It remains unclear if the US will resume attacks on Iran. The US Congress faces a deadline to approve the war or a 30-day extension, without which the US must significantly scale back its offensive under the War Powers Resolution.

President Donald Trump was briefed on potential further strikes aimed at pressuring Iran to negotiate. Some US officials have indicated that imminent military action is a possibility, raising concerns about the risk of casualties and escalation.

An imminent military strike is very much on the table. This prospect is deeply disturbing because it could well involve American sons and daughters in harm’s way and lead to potential massive casualties.—US Senator Richard Blumenthal

Iran’s Defensive Preparations and Threats

Iran has been preparing for possible renewed attacks, with air defense activity reported in Tehran targeting drones and surveillance aircraft. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that any new US strikes would trigger long and painful retaliations against US regional bases and warships.

We’ve seen what happened to your regional bases, we will see the same thing happen to your warships.—Majid Mousavi, IRGC Aerospace Force Commander

Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei emphasized Iran’s determination to eliminate foreign abuses of the Strait of Hormuz, signaling Tehran’s intent to maintain control over this strategic waterway.

What Lies Ahead: Multiple Scenarios and Global Implications

The White House is reportedly considering various options, including intensified military and economic actions, should the ceasefire not be extended. Ultimately, the decision rests with President Trump, who faces complex choices amid rising tensions.

The ongoing blockade and threats of renewed conflict keep the world on edge, with the potential to disrupt global energy markets and regional stability. Diplomatic efforts remain stalled, and the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether peace or escalation prevails.