Iran Threatens to Mine Persian Gulf Amidst Escalating Middle East Crisis

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Iran has issued stark warnings that it will lay naval mines across the entire Persian Gulf and target electrical plants across the Middle East if its territory is attacked, or if U.S. President Donald Trump proceeds with threats to bomb Iranian power stations. The escalating rhetoric comes as the conflict between Israel and Iran enters its fourth week, raising fears of a wider regional war.

Threat to Mine Persian Gulf

Iran’s Defence Council stated, according to the Fars news agency, that any attack on Iranian coasts or islands will result in the mining of all access routes and communication lines in the Persian Gulf. This would effectively block the waterway, creating a situation similar to the Strait of Hormuz, but on a much larger scale. Iran has previously restricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global energy markets .

While Iran has permitted safe passage for ships from countries like China, India, and Pakistan, it has effectively closed the Strait to others, reportedly through attacks and the laying of mines.

Trump’s Ultimatum and Potential U.S. Response

U.S. President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum on Saturday, demanding Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to “obliterate” Iranian power plants if the demand is not met. .

In response to Trump’s threat, Iran has vowed to target critical infrastructure and energy facilities in the region. The U.S. Is reportedly considering options to pressure Iran, including a potential occupation or blockade of Kharg Island, a strategically crucial location.

Escalating Regional Conflict

The conflict has expanded beyond the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran increasingly targeting energy sites in Gulf Arab states following Israel’s bombing of Iran’s South Pars offshore natural gas field in the Persian Gulf.

There have similarly been conflicting reports of aerial engagements, with Iran claiming to have intercepted and targeted a U.S. F-15 fighter jet near Hormuz Island, a claim the U.S. Has denied.

International Response

Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India addressed Parliament, expressing deep concern over the situation in West Asia, noting its potential impact on the global economy and the lives of people worldwide. Air raid sirens have also sounded in central Israel, indicating ongoing missile attacks.

The situation remains highly volatile, with the potential for further escalation in the coming days.