Iran Warns of “Long and Painful Strikes” if U.S. Escalates Conflict

UNS :
Iran has issued a stern warning to the United States, vowing “long and painful strikes” against American positions if Washington resumes military attacks, as tensions in the region continue to escalate.
The warning comes amid a prolonged standoff that has seen the critical Strait of Hormuz remain closed for weeks. The waterway, through which roughly 20% of global oil and gas supplies pass, has been blocked by Iran in response to a U.S. naval presence, triggering sharp increases in global energy prices and raising fears of an economic slowdown.
According to reports, U.S. President Donald Trump is reviewing options for fresh military strikes aimed at forcing Tehran back to negotiations. News of potential action initially pushed oil prices above $126 per barrel before they eased slightly.
Iranian officials, however, dismissed the likelihood of a quick diplomatic resolution. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated that expecting rapid progress in talks is “not realistic,” regardless of mediation efforts.
Meanwhile, signs of military activity have intensified. Air defense systems were reportedly activated in Tehran to intercept drones, underscoring the fragile ceasefire that has been in place since early April.
A senior commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned that even limited U.S. strikes would provoke widespread retaliation against American bases and naval forces in the region. Iran’s leadership has also reiterated its intention to maintain control over the strategic waterway.
The crisis has drawn international concern. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres cautioned that prolonged disruption could severely impact global growth, increase inflation, and push millions into poverty.
Regional governments are also taking precautionary measures. The United Arab Emirates has advised its citizens to avoid travel to Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon, urging those already there to return home immediately.
As the standoff continues, uncertainty over the flow of energy supplies and the risk of wider conflict remains high, with global markets and political leaders closely monitoring developments.