Iran Threatens Regional Energy Attacks over US Strikes

Iran has sharply stepped up diplomatic contacts with Gulf states in recent days, warning them of serious consequences should the United States resume military strikes.

According to several sources, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told representatives from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey and Pakistan that if the United States attacks Iran's energy infrastructure, Tehran would retaliate by striking oil fields, refineries, power grids, water sources and transportation infrastructure belonging to US allies in the region. The apparent goal is to push Arab governments to persuade President Donald Trump to favor negotiations over further military escalation.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman subsequently urged Trump to delay any attack and return to diplomacy. Riyadh, however, also warned that it would respond militarily to any strike on its own territory.

Iran's message suggests that renewed conflict could threaten energy security across the region as well as global oil supplies.

(Reuters, mja)