Iran Warns of “Long and Painful” Retaliation if US Renews Military Action

Iran has issued a stark warning that any renewed military action by the United States would trigger a “long and painful” response targeting American positions across the Gulf region, as tensions persist despite an existing ceasefire.

Two months into the conflict, the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, significantly disrupting global energy flows. The waterway is a critical conduit for oil and gas shipments, and its continued blockade has contributed to rising global energy prices and economic uncertainty.

Diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis have stalled, even though a ceasefire has been in place since April 8. Tehran has maintained the closure of the strait in response to US naval restrictions on its ports, which have halted Iranian oil exports.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei defended the move, stating, “This is because of the war and the defence of our right – that is, according to international law, it is legitimate, legal, and accepted.”

He also accused Washington of misusing the waterway, adding, “In such circumstances, you cannot allow this waterway to be misused.”

Iranian officials further justified potential strikes on US assets in Gulf countries, linking them to regional cooperation with Washington during the conflict.

Regional reactions have been swift. The United Arab Emirates announced travel restrictions, banning its citizens from visiting Iran, Lebanon, and Iraq, while urging those already there to return immediately.

Senior UAE official Anwar Gargash criticized Tehran’s stance, stating that “No unilateral Iranian arrangements can be trusted or relied upon, following its treacherous aggression against all its neighbours.”

In Bahrain, King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa condemned what he described as Iranian aggression and warned of strict measures against individuals accused of supporting hostile actions.

Uncertainty also surrounds Washington’s next steps. The administration faces a deadline under the War Powers Resolution to seek congressional approval for continued military engagement or justify an extension. Without it, operations may need to be scaled back.

Reports indicate that military options remain under consideration. US officials have discussed potential strike scenarios aimed at increasing pressure on Tehran, though no final decision has been publicly confirmed.

US Senator Richard Blumenthal expressed concern about the possibility of imminent military action, warning it could place American lives at risk and lead to significant casualties.

Meanwhile, Iran has heightened defensive readiness. Air defence systems have reportedly been activated in parts of Tehran in response to perceived aerial threats, including drones.

A senior figure within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that any renewed US strike, even if limited, would prompt a broad retaliation. Iranian military leadership has suggested that both regional bases and naval assets could become targets.

Iran’s leadership has also reiterated its stance on maintaining control over the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing its strategic importance and signaling that restrictions on access will remain in place under current conditions.

As diplomatic channels remain uncertain and military options stay on the table, the situation continues to carry significant risks for regional stability and global energy markets.