Iran Warns of Gulf-Wide Retaliation, Including Airports and Pipelines

Wider attacks if US, Israel resume airstrikes

Threatens to sever undersea cables in the Strait of Hormuz

Iran has warned it could expand retaliation to civilian infrastructure, including airports and oil pipelines in neighboring Gulf states, if US and Israeli airstrikes resume. By naming energy, transport and communications networks — beyond US bases and warships — as potential targets, Tehran has heightened concerns that the war could spread across the Middle East.

The Wall Street Journal reported on Oct. 23 that Iran conveyed that position through public statements and private diplomatic channels. It also warned mediating countries that if the US strikes again, it would widen its attacks to Gulf states' economic facilities and intensify attacks on US personnel, including by sinking American naval vessels.

Iran has also threatened communications networks. Yadollah Javani, deputy commander for political affairs at the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said on Oct. 21 that Iran could cut internet cables beneath the Strait of Hormuz if its own infrastructure comes under attack. The threat extends beyond oil shipping lanes to data networks, increasing pressure on the US and neighboring countries. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said additional attacks would endanger civilian lives in the region and the global economy.

The US is bolstering its military posture while taking steps to protect personnel. A third carrier strike group and an additional Marine expeditionary unit are heading to the Middle East. Some regional bases have relocated troops, and the State Department ordered nonessential government staff and their families in Saudi Arabia to leave, citing the threat of attacks by Houthi militants.

With negotiations deadlocked for months, President Donald Trump has warned that the US could attack Iran after the US midterm elections on Nov. 3. The US and Israeli militaries are also preparing multiple strike options, leaving Gulf states wary of a broader conflict.

Experts estimate Iran still has several hundred to several thousand ballistic missiles. US and regional officials believe Tehran has resumed limited missile production using stockpiled parts and underground facilities. By contrast, interceptor missile inventories held by the US, Arab states and Israel are under strain in a prolonged conflict.

Still, Iran's capacity to sustain a lengthy confrontation is limited after US and Israeli strikes early in the war damaged its missiles and launchers, while its economy remains unstable. Farzin Nadimi, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute, said Iran is capable of inflicting major damage on regional energy and internet infrastructure. But if it carries out those threats, it would likely face retaliation that could also cost it its own facilities.

Vali Nasr, a former senior adviser at the US State Department, said Iran has shown unexpected capabilities throughout the war. The threats should not be taken lightly.