“We’re Ready to Retaliate”: Iran Presses Gulf States to Avert Fresh U.S. Strikes
Iran has intensified diplomatic efforts across the Gulf, urging regional leaders to help prevent another round of U.S. military action while warning that any fresh attack on its territory could trigger a broader conflict with consequences far beyond its borders.
Senior officials familiar with the discussions said Tehran has been reaching out to key governments in the region following recent threats by U.S. President Donald Trump to target Iran’s energy infrastructure.
Iranian authorities are reportedly seeking to convince Washington’s allies that diplomacy offers a safer path than military escalation.
The message delivered during those high-level contacts was both firm and direct. As one senior regional diplomat described Iran’s position, “We’re ready to retaliate, but finding a diplomatic solution is the best way to avoid wider escalation and destruction across the region.”
According to sources, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi held discussions with his counterparts in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey, while also engaging Pakistan’s army chief.
During those conversations, Tehran reportedly warned that any renewed U.S. strikes could be met with attacks on strategic infrastructure across the Gulf, including oil facilities, refineries, electricity grids, water systems and transport networks.
Iran also appealed to Gulf governments to use their diplomatic influence with Washington to discourage further military action and revive negotiations instead. Officials said Tehran believes continued dialogue remains the most effective way to prevent a wider regional crisis.
The diplomatic push was followed by reported contacts between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and President Trump, during which the Saudi leader encouraged the United States to delay military action, support efforts toward a ceasefire and pursue a negotiated settlement.
While advocating diplomacy, Gulf countries have also signalled that they would respond if their territories or critical infrastructure were attacked, reflecting growing concern that another confrontation between Washington and Tehran could quickly spread across the region.
The latest developments underscore mounting fears that renewed hostilities would not only threaten regional security but could also disrupt global energy markets, placing additional pressure on an already fragile international landscape.
For now, diplomatic channels remain open, even as both sides continue to exchange increasingly tough warnings.
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