Published: · Region: Middle East · Category: geopolitics

Iran’s Threat to Gulf Infrastructure Puts Energy and Desalination Lifelines at Risk

Tehran has warned Gulf Arab states it will target energy and water infrastructure if they fail to rein in renewed U.S. strikes, turning pipelines and desalination plants into bargaining chips. The ultimatum raises the risk that any miscalculation over Iran could spill straight into power grids, drinking water systems, and export terminals serving tens of millions.

Iran’s latest warning to Gulf Arab governments makes clear that any renewed military confrontation with Washington will not stay confined to missiles and bases. By openly threatening to target energy and water infrastructure unless Arab states help halt U.S. strikes, Tehran is putting desalination plants, power stations, and export terminals at the center of its deterrence strategy – and directly into the lives of civilians and energy buyers far beyond the region. According to a public ultimatum from Tehran reported on 6 August, Iranian authorities have warned that they are prepared to carry out “severe attacks” on Gulf energy and water infrastructure if Arab governments do not persuade Washington to…

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