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Iran is signaling a major escalation in the regional conflict, warning it could block another стратегічна морська артерія and even destroy its own infrastructure to stop a potential U.S. military operation.
Threat to open a new front
According to reports by CNN and The Guardian, an Iranian military source warned that if United States or Israel attempt landings on Iranian islands or intensify naval pressure in the Persian Gulf, Tehran will escalate further.
Specifically, Iran threatened to open a new фронт in the area of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait — a critical passage connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden, through which about 12% of global seaborne oil shipments pass annually.
“We will open other fronts as a surprise,” the source said.
Kharg Island: readiness for self-destruction
Another flashpoint is Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil export terminal in the Persian Gulf.
- The U.S. is reportedly deploying additional ground forces to the region
- Kharg Island is considered a potential target for a U.S. operation
- Iran has warned it is ready to destroy its own facilities there
Diplomatic sources told media that Tehran is prepared to take extreme measures:
“They don’t care if they have to blow up their own territory… they will do it to kill American soldiers.”
Pressure on global energy routes
Iran has already increased pressure on shipping by introducing transit fees in the Strait of Hormuz, reportedly reaching up to $2 million per vessel.
At the same time, Washington has partially eased restrictions on Iranian oil stuck on tankers at sea, though the move does not apply to all exports.
Strategic implications
If Iran follows through on threats to disrupt both Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb, it would put a significant portion of global oil flows at risk, amplifying volatility in energy markets already strained by the broader Middle East conflict.
The situation suggests Tehran is prepared to escalate asymmetrically — targeting global trade chokepoints rather than relying solely on direct military confrontation.
