TEHRAN — Iran has issued a stark warning to a regional neighbour, saying any attempt to seize one of its islands would prompt direct and sustained attacks on critical infrastructure, raising the stakes in an already volatile confrontation in the Gulf.
Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, said intelligence assessments indicate that “Iran’s enemies” are planning to occupy an Iranian island with the backing of a regional country. Any such move, he said, would be met with “continuous and relentless attacks” against the assisting state’s vital infrastructure.
The warning comes as Iran publicly rejects claims by US President Donald Trump that Washington is engaged in negotiations with Tehran to de-escalate the conflict. Iranian officials have repeatedly denied that formal talks are under way.
At the same time, the White House has toughened its rhetoric. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Iran must accept defeat or face intensified military action.
US Military Buildup in the Gulf
Tensions have been further heightened by an expanding US military presence in the region. According to reports, about 2,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division have been deployed to the Gulf, with additional Marine units expected to arrive aboard an amphibious assault ship. The reinforcements add to US forces already moving toward the area.
Focus on Kharg Island
Analysts say the potential flashpoint may be Kharg Island, a strategically important hub for Iran’s oil exports. Some observers suggest Tehran’s warning is aimed at the United Arab Emirates, amid speculation that it could support a US-backed operation.
Local analysts say any move against Iranian territory would be viewed in Tehran as a major escalation, with expectations of swift retaliation against both regional actors and US forces.
Iranian media have also warned that the conflict could widen beyond the Gulf. Reports cited by Tasnim News Agency said Iran could open a new front near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a critical shipping route linking the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. The reports added that Yemen’s Houthi movement could become involved if hostilities intensify.
Diplomatic Signals Amid Escalation
Despite the sharp rhetoric and military movements, there are signs of quiet diplomatic activity. US officials are reported to have proposed a 15-point plan aimed at ending the conflict, while Iranian leaders have outlined their own conditions for peace.
Tehran, however, continues to insist that no formal negotiations are taking place, even as the risk of a broader regional confrontation grows.
