Iran has ordered the closure of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz to all types of vessels, including oil tankers and merchant ships, following U.S. military strikes in southern Hormozgan province. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Command. The top operational body of the Iranian military, announced the move, raising tensions to critical levels; the Strait of Hormuz is a major maritime route through which 20% of the world’s crude oil is transported, according to the IRNA news agency.

Iran Warns of Broader Conflict

The Iranian military warned that «this time, the war will not be limited to the region,» according to a military communiqué. The statement emphasized that the closure of the strait is due to «insecurity in the region» and that no vessel should depart from its anchorage in the Persian Gulf or the Gulf of Oman. Any vessel approaching the strait would be considered an act of cooperation with the enemy.

The Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic pledged a «crushing and decisive response to any aggression» from the «terrorist and aggressor U.S. military,» according to the same communiqué. This response marks a significant escalation in rhetoric and military posture from Iran.

Gulf Countries Targeted in Iran’s Attacks

Iran launched drone attacks on U.S. diplomatic missions in the Middle East, including the U.S. embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and a consulate in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. In Riyadh. Two drones struck the embassy. Causing part of the roof to collapse and igniting a fire, while the CIA branch within the embassy also sustained damage, according to a report by KBS News.

A drone attack on the U.S. consulate in Dubai on the night of the 3rd local time caused a drone to crash in a nearby parking lot, leading to a fire. No casualties were reported. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the drone «struck a parking lot adjacent to the chancellery building and then set off a fire in that place.»

UAE Considers Military Action

The United Arab Emirates is reportedly considering military action against Iranian missile bases in response to the ongoing missile and drone attacks, according to Axios, citing multiple sources. The UAE has suffered approximately 800 projectile attacks and is reassessing its defense posture. A source stated that «the view inside the UAE is that there is no country anywhere in the world that would not reassess its defense posture under such circumstances.»

Such a move would be historic for the UAE, according to Axios. The mere consideration of attacking Iran highlights the escalating tensions in the region and the potential for broader conflict.

Meanwhile, more than 9,000 Americans have evacuated the Middle East in the wake of the attacks, according to a report from KBS News. The U.S. government has heightened security measures and is coordinating with regional partners to manage the crisis.