Iran warns of retaliatory strikes on U.S.-linked energy assets amid escalating Gulf tensions

Statement comes amid growing tensions following President Donald Trump’s announcement that US forces had targeted military installations on Iran’s main oil hub, Kharg Island, while leaving its oil infrastructure intact

WASHINGTON/TEHRAN: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-March 14^th, 2026) Iran’s military warned on Saturday that any attacks on its oil and energy infrastructure would trigger retaliatory strikes against energy assets of companies working with the United States in the region.

The statement comes amid growing tensions following President Donald Trump’s announcement that US forces had targeted military installations on Iran’s main oil hub, Kharg Island, while leaving its oil infrastructure intact.

Trump had threatened to strike Iranian oil facilities if attacks continued that had halted most ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical channel through which nearly a fifth of the world’s oil passes. Kharg Island serves as the export terminal for approximately 90% of Iran’s crude shipments. In a social media post, Trump said the U.S. military “totally obliterated every MILITARY target” on Kharg but left oil infrastructure unharmed.

“However, should Iran, or anyone else, interfere with the free and safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision,” Trump warned, a statement that has added volatility to global oil markets already facing what the International Energy Agency (IEA) has called the largest supply disruption in history.

Trump added that Iran lacks the capacity to defend against U.S. attacks, urging its military to lay down arms to preserve what remains of the country.

Oil prices have fluctuated sharply amid Trump’s changing statements on the possible duration of the conflict, which has prompted Iran to attack vessels in the strait. While Trump previously suggested the war would last only weeks, he declined to publicly project an end date, stating, “It’ll be as long as it’s necessary.”

Despite the tensions, Iran has continued exporting crude while other Gulf producers halted shipments due to fears of attacks. Satellite imagery reviewed by TankerTrackers.com showed multiple very large crude carriers loading at Kharg Island. Since February 28, Iran has exported between 1.1 and 1.5 million barrels per day.

The market analysts are closely watching for any damage to Kharg’s pipelines, terminals, and storage tanks, noting that even minor disruptions could tighten global supply.

Bob McNally, president of Rapidan Energy Group, said Trump’s recent statements could heighten concerns about prolonged energy disruptions.

Some industry experts expressed skepticism that Kharg’s oil facilities would remain intact. Josh Young, chief investment officer at Bison Interests, remarked: “Bombing Kharg Island but not the oil infrastructure is like going to McDonald’s and getting a hamburger with no meat. What’s the point?”

Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, in his first public remarks, vowed to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed and urged neighboring countries to shut down U.S. bases on their soil or face potential attacks. In response, Trump said the U.S. Navy would “soon” begin escorting tankers through the strait.

European powers, including France, have been consulting with Asian and Gulf states to develop a plan for warships to escort tankers. Rising gasoline and diesel prices globally have prompted the U.S. to issue a 30-day license allowing countries to purchase sanctioned Russian oil already at sea—a move welcomed in Moscow but criticized by Kyiv and Western allies.

Nearly two weeks into the conflict, around 2,000 people have been killed, mostly in Iran, with casualties increasing in Lebanon and the Gulf. Millions have been displaced from their homes. Israel has conducted airstrikes on Beirut suburbs, while leaflets warning of severe destruction were dropped over Gaza.

US forces have also suffered losses; a refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq, killing all six crew members. Iran has launched further missile and drone attacks on Israel, with drones reported in Kuwait, Iraq, UAE, Bahrain, and Oman.

The Israeli military retaliated with airstrikes across Tehran, targeting over 200 locations, including missile launchers, air defense systems, and weapons production sites. Meanwhile, the U.S. is deploying additional forces to the region, including the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli and 2,500 Marines, to strengthen its presence amid escalating hostilities.