Iran Issues Stern Warning Over Threat to Energy Infrastructure

Iran's military has threatened significant retaliation if its energy infrastructure is targeted amid the West Asia conflict. Meanwhile, Iran's new Supreme Leader and UN Ambassador underline the strategic use of the Strait of Hormuz as leverage while reiterating Iran's commitment to navigation freedom under international law.

As the West Asia conflict escalates to its 14th day, Iran's military command, Khatam al-Anbiya, has issued a stark warning of severe repercussions if its energy infrastructure comes under attack from US-Israeli forces. A military spokesperson declared that any such assault would provoke a 'crushing and devastating response,' targeted specifically at oil and gas sites vital to Western interests.

Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's new Supreme Leader, emphasized on Iranian state television that the potential closure of vital trade routes such as the Strait of Hormuz remains a key negotiating tool. Addressing military personnel, Khamenei urged the continuance of an effective defense, stating that the use of the Strait's blockage as leverage is strategically essential.

Concurrently, Iran's UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani clarified at the UN that while Iran has no plans to block the strait, it reserves the right to ensure the security of this critical passage, citing international law. Despite recent restrictions due to US-Israeli actions, Iran insists on its commitment to navigation freedom.

(With inputs from agencies.)