Iran Vows Retaliation for Attacks on Energy Facilities, Accuses UAE of Aiding U.S.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iran warned Saturday it would target American companies and energy infrastructure in the region if its own energy facilities are attacked, escalating tensions in the third week of a conflict with the United States and Israel. The warning came after a U.S. military strike on Kharg Island, a critical hub for Iranian oil exports, on Friday.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, in an interview with MS NOW, stated that Iran’s armed forces are prepared to retaliate should its oil and energy infrastructure come under attack. He specifically threatened strikes against any energy infrastructure in the region linked to American companies, either through ownership or investment.
“We will attack any energy infrastructure in the region which belongs to an American company or an American company is a shareholder,” Araghchi said.
The U.S. strike, according to Araghchi, utilized short-range rockets launched from bases within the United Arab Emirates, including one near Dubai. He condemned the use of neighboring countries’ territory for attacks against Iran, calling it “absolutely unacceptable” and warning of the danger of strikes originating from populated areas.
“It is very dangerous that they use highly populated areas,” Araghchi stated, adding that Iran would strive to avoid targeting civilian areas in any retaliatory action.
The accusations against the UAE follow a statement by President Donald Trump on Friday claiming that all military targets on Kharg Island had been “obliterated,” while notably sparing energy facilities. Trump also threatened to bomb oil infrastructure on Kharg Island if Iran obstructs the free passage of crude through the Strait of Hormuz.
The escalating rhetoric and military actions raise concerns about a wider regional conflict. The situation remains fluid, with both sides signaling a willingness to respond to further provocations.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
(Reporting by The Associated Press)