Iran Threatens “Long and Painful Strikes” on US Positions Amid Strait of Hormuz Tensions

Iran has issued a stark warning, stating that it will respond with “long and painful strikes” against US positions should Washington renew its military actions. This declaration complicates ongoing efforts to form a coalition aimed at reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil and gas supplies.

Current Situation in the Strait of Hormuz

As the US-Israeli conflict with Iran continues into its second month, the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. This closure is significantly impacting global energy markets, as the strait is responsible for transporting approximately 20% of the world’s oil and gas. The ongoing blockade has led to soaring energy prices and raised alarms about a potential economic downturn.

Despite a ceasefire established on April 8, Iran continues to block access to the strait in retaliation for a US naval blockade that has severely restricted its oil exports, which are vital to its economy.

US Military Planning and Economic Implications

On Thursday, US President Donald Trump was scheduled to receive a briefing on new military strategies aimed at compelling Iran to negotiate an end to the conflict. Reports from Axios indicated that these plans have been part of US military considerations for some time. Following the news of the briefing, oil prices surged, with Brent crude reaching over $126 per barrel before settling around $114.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei remarked that expecting quick results from US negotiations is unrealistic, emphasizing the complexity of the situation.

Air Defense Activity and Regional Tensions

Reports from Iran’s capital, Tehran, indicated increased air defense activity, with local media stating that air defenses were engaging small drones and unmanned aerial vehicles. This heightened military readiness underscores the escalating tensions in the region.

Trump reiterated his administration’s stance that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons. He also suggested that gasoline prices would significantly decrease once the conflict is resolved, a key concern for his administration as the midterm elections approach.

Iranian Leadership’s Stance

A senior official from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned that any new US attack, even if limited, would lead to severe retaliatory strikes on US positions in the region. Aerospace Force Commander Majid Mousavi stated that the US should anticipate similar consequences to those experienced by its regional bases.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei conveyed a message to the Iranian public, asserting that Tehran would eliminate any foreign “abuses” of the waterway, signaling Iran’s intent to maintain control over the strait. He stated, “Foreigners who come from thousands of kilometers away… have no place there except at the bottom of its waters.”

Global Economic Concerns

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that if the closure of the Strait of Hormuz persists, global economic growth could decline, inflation could rise, and millions more people could face poverty and extreme hunger. He emphasized that the longer the strait remains blocked, the more difficult it will be to reverse the resulting economic damage.

As the US approaches a formal deadline to either conclude military actions or seek Congressional approval for an extension under the 1973 War Powers Resolution, it appears that the conflict may continue without significant changes. A senior administration official indicated that, for the purposes of the resolution, hostilities had effectively ceased due to the April ceasefire.

Broader Regional Dynamics

The ongoing conflict has exacerbated Iran’s economic challenges, raising concerns about the country’s stability post-conflict. Despite the US blockade, Iran seems capable of enduring the current standoff in the Gulf.

Iran has not only blocked most shipping through the strait but has also launched drones and missiles targeting Israel and US bases in the region. Reports suggest that one of the plans being considered by the Trump administration includes deploying ground forces to secure part of the strait for commercial shipping.

In a potential shift towards de-escalation, a State Department cable is expected to invite partner nations to join a new coalition, termed the Maritime Freedom Construct, aimed at ensuring safe navigation through the strait. However, countries like France and Britain have indicated they would only contribute to such efforts once the conflict concludes.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi noted that halting Israeli attacks on Lebanon, where a fragile ceasefire is currently in place, is a critical component of any future negotiations between Iran and the US.

As diplomatic channels remain open, Pakistan is reportedly mediating to prevent further escalation while the US and Iran exchange messages regarding a potential agreement.

Source: www.arnnewscentre.ae

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Published on 2026-05-01 05:43:00 • By the Editorial Desk