Iran has threatened retaliatory measures against countries that participate in what it calls the United States’ “economic war” against Tehran. Mohsen Rezaei, described as Iran’s top security official, said any country involved in imposing economic restrictions on Iran would be treated as an enemy. The article, published on August 24, 2026, says Iran would initially urge such countries through diplomacy to abandon the US position.

Rezaei said Iran could target the interests and facilities of countries that do not respond to diplomatic appeals. Tehran specifically warned Gulf states, saying it would seek to halt oil exports from the Gulf through routes other than the Strait of Hormuz if they help implement US economic pressure. The report says this could further disrupt global oil and gas supplies.

The United States is preparing tougher sanctions on Iran, while President Donald Trump said countries assisting Iran would face major economic consequences. Washington is also increasing pressure on China, identified as a major buyer of Iranian oil. Analyst Hamidreza Azizi called Iran’s warning to Gulf countries an ultimatum, while noting that regional states face risks to oil exports, trade and their economies in a prolonged conflict.