Iran’s Larijani Threatens Regional Power Grid Attacks Amid Escalating Rhetoric with U.S.
By [Your Name], International Editor
WASHINGTON – Escalating tensions between the United States and Iran reached a new level Thursday, with Iranian security chief Ali Larijani threatening retaliatory attacks on regional power grids should the U.S. target Iranian energy infrastructure. The exchange of threats follows recent bellicose statements from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Iran’s capabilities and potential for military action.
The dispute was ignited by Trump’s assertion that the U.S. could “take apart” Iran’s electric capacity “within one hour,” though he added, “ideally we’re not going to be doing that.” Larijani responded directly to Trump via a post on X, warning that a U.S. attack would plunge the entire region into darkness, creating “ample opportunity to hunt down US servicemen running for safety.”
“[Trump] has said ‘we can take apart Iran’s electric capacity within one hour, but we have not done it.’ Well, if they do that, the whole region will go dark in less than half an hour and darkness provides ample opportunity to hunt down US servicemen running for safety,” Larijani wrote.
Trump has said “we can take apart Iran’s electric capacity within one hour, but we have not done it.”
Well, if they do that, the whole region will go dark in less than half an hour and darkness provides ample opportunity to hunt down US servicemen running for safety.
— Ali Larijani | علی لاریجانی (@alilarijani_ir) March 12, 2026
This is not the first direct threat issued by Larijani toward Trump. Earlier this week, he warned the former president that he could face “elimination,” stating, “Even those greater than you could not eliminate Iran. Watch out for yourself, lest you be eliminated!”
Trump’s recent statements also included claims that Iran’s military has been “absolutely decimated” by U.S. operations and threats of even harsher retaliation should Iran attempt to disrupt oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz. He warned of “Death, Fire, and Fury” should such action occur, while simultaneously expressing hope that escalation can be avoided.
Larijani, who has served as secretary of the Supreme National Security Council since 2025, is a longtime political figure in Iran, often described as a pragmatist. He has been involved in a broad range of sensitive issues, including nuclear negotiations, regional relations, and the suppression of internal dissent. He was sanctioned by the U.S. in January for his alleged role in a crackdown on anti-government protests.
The escalating rhetoric raises concerns about the potential for miscalculation and further instability in the already volatile Middle East. The threats come as the region remains on edge, with ongoing conflicts and geopolitical tensions.