Iran has warned that major energy infrastructure in Gulf countries could face retaliatory attacks if the United States launches new strikes, Reuters reported, citing five sources. The message was conveyed through high-level diplomatic contacts after US President Donald Trump threatened on July 28 to attack Iran’s energy sector and infrastructure.

Two Iranian sources, two Gulf sources and a senior regional diplomat said Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi spoke with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey, as well as Pakistan’s army chief. He urged Gulf states to use their influence with Trump to prevent further attacks. Araghchi also warned that US military facilities and energy infrastructure in the Gulf would be targets if Washington attacked Iran.

A senior regional diplomat said Iran’s message in every discussion was that it was ready to retaliate, while diplomatic solutions offered the best way to avoid wider conflict and destruction. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly urged Trump to pause military action, maintain a ceasefire and return to talks. Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia also called for renewed negotiations, while Trump said on August 2 he would cancel attack plans if a rapid agreement were possible.