Iranian Parliament Speaker Warns of Retaliation Against US Energy Assets
On September 7, 2026, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf issued a stark warning regarding the vulnerability of US energy assets in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. He indicated that these assets could face Iranian retaliation if the US were to strike Tehran’s oil and gas infrastructure.
Qalibaf stated, “It’s simple: the oil and gas production chain here is sprawling, accessible, and exposed. American oil and gas companies across these waters and facilities share that exposure.” He reiterated the threat by saying, “Strike our assets and you get struck,” referencing past events to emphasize the seriousness of his statement.
This warning follows recent US threats aimed at Iranian oil vessels in retaliation for attacks on American naval forces. On September 5, US Central Command (CENTCOM) released footage of Iranian vessels being targeted and quoted its commander, Adm. Brad Cooper, who cautioned Tehran against any strikes on US ships, stating, “If you shoot at two of our ships, we will impose an even higher economic cost — taking out three of yours.” He assured the public that the US would not hesitate to defend its forces and diminish Iran’s oil fleet.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed these sentiments on social media, stressing that Iran’s oil tanker fleet is vulnerable due to the lack of a robust naval and air force. He warned, “if Iran shoots at U.S. ships, we will destroy (and sink) their oil tankers.”
These exchanges come amidst ongoing hostilities between the US and Iran, particularly concerning navigation rights in the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran claims that its military actions against US forces are self-defensive, warning that further assaults on its commercial vessels would trigger retaliatory responses.
