Trump Threatens “Severe” Attack on Iran Amid Partial Sanctions Relief for Russian Oil
U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of a “very severe” attack on Iran within the next week, even as Washington temporarily eased sanctions on Russian oil purchases for 30 days to stabilize global energy markets.
Since the outbreak of hostilities with Iran, global oil markets have seen significant volatility. Trump’s varying statements on the potential duration of the conflict have heightened market uncertainty. Iran has already targeted ships passing through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, which transports nearly a fifth of the world’s oil.
In an interview, Trump assured that, if necessary, American forces will provide security for vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, saying, “We will escort the ships if needed.”
Despite a near 1% decline in Brent crude to around $99.50 per barrel on European exchanges, prices have surged approximately 40% since the conflict began, putting pressure on stock markets across Europe and Asia.
Nearly 2,000 people have died in the conflict so far, mostly in Iran, with casualties rising in Lebanon and other Gulf states. Iran has launched new missile and drone attacks on Israel, prompting retaliatory strikes by Israeli forces across Iran and Hezbollah positions in Lebanon.
The Israeli military reported over 200 targeted strikes in western and central Iran in the past 24 hours, hitting ballistic missile launchers, air defense systems, and weapons production facilities.
The ongoing conflict has raised fears of a major disruption in global energy supplies, pushing oil prices close to $100 per barrel. The International Energy Agency has warned that the conflict could trigger the largest oil supply crisis in history.
In the United States, diesel prices have climbed to nearly $4.89 per gallon, the highest since 2022, reflecting the global supply concerns.
Iran’s new supreme leader, Mujtaba Khamenei, has warned that the Strait of Hormuz may be closed and called on Middle Eastern countries to remove U.S. military bases from their territories.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued stern warnings directed at Iran’s leadership. Analysts warn that if the conflict in the Middle East continues, it could have far-reaching consequences for global energy markets, international security, and the world economy.
