Iran has warned it is prepared for a long war of attrition that could “destroy” the world economy, following attacks on two commercial ships and threats against vessels from the United States and its allies.
The warning came as tensions escalated in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway through which about 20% of the world’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas passes.
Tehran said it targeted the Liberian-flagged container ship Express Rome and the Thai bulk carrier Mayuree Naree for entering the strait despite warnings from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Oman’s navy rescued 20 crew members, while efforts continued to locate three others.
According to AFP news, Truthlive news learnt that Ali Fadavi, advisor to the Revolutionary Guards’ commander-in-chief, told state television on Wednesday: “The US and Israel must consider the possibility that they will be engaged in a long-term war of attrition that will destroy the entire American economy and the world economy.”
The conflict, now in its 12th day, follows an attack by US and Israeli forces that killed Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been named his successor, though reports suggest he may have been injured in the same strike.
US President Donald Trump said the war would end “soon,” claiming there was little left for American forces to target in Iran.
Meanwhile, Israel launched further strikes against Iranian positions and Hezbollah targets in Beirut, including attacks on residential buildings.
The conflict has pushed oil prices higher, prompting the International Energy Agency to release 400 million barrels from member country reserves, the largest such release in its history. Analysts warn that a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz would severely disrupt global trade, particularly for oil, gas, and fertiliser supplies.
The escalation has also affected regional business hubs. Companies including US financial group Citi and British consultancy Deloitte evacuated staff from Dubai, after drones fell near Dubai airport and fuel tanks at Oman’s Salalah port were targeted.
