Iran threatens energy fields if US launches fresh attacks

Iran has warned against any "adventurous action" by the U.S. and stated it would retaliate decisively if American forces follow through on President Donald Trump's threats of fresh attacks on Iranian targets. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi's comments came after Kuwait's army reported destroying hostile drones launched by Iran against several vital facilities.

Araqchi spoke with Turkish, Pakistani, and Saudi officials, discussing the consequences of "destabilizing actions" by the U.S. and heightened regional insecurity. He also told Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan that any attacks by the U.S. and Israel, or participation by regional countries, would be met with a "proportionate response."

Nournews, an outlet affiliated with Iran's top security body, reported that U.S. attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure would prompt Iranian strikes on oil fields in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, as well as the gas fields of Qatar and Israel. Benchmark Brent crude futures rose 24% in July, and analysts expect prices to rise further this year. The risk of Iranian attacks has deterred most shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, an important conduit for global energy supplies.

Kuwait's army stated that falling shrapnel from destroyed drones caused material damage but no casualties. Iran's Houthi allies in Yemen have also threatened the Bab el-Mandeb strait, another export route for Saudi crude. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported two maritime incidents off Oman, including a tanker struck by an unknown projectile.