Washington/Tehran: After Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum threatening to “obliterate” Iran’s power plants if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened, experts warn that such a move could have far-reaching and dangerous global consequences.
Here are five key reasons why strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure could trigger a wider crisis:
1. Risk of Full-Scale Regional War
Targeting critical infrastructure would likely provoke massive retaliation from Iran. Tehran has already warned it could strike US-linked assets across the region, potentially dragging multiple countries into a broader war in West Asia.
2. Global Oil Supply Shock
The Strait of Hormuz handles nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply. Any escalation could completely disrupt shipments, sending crude prices soaring and triggering a global energy crisis affecting economies worldwide.
3. Threat to Nuclear Safety
One of the possible targets could be the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant. Even a near miss or collateral damage could risk radiation leaks, creating environmental and humanitarian consequences far beyond Iran’s borders.
4. Economic Fallout Worldwide
A major conflict would impact:
- Global stock markets
- Inflation (especially fuel and food prices)
- Supply chains and shipping routes
Countries heavily dependent on energy imports, including India, would face serious economic pressure.
5. Infrastructure Retaliation & Cyber Attacks
Iran has indicated it could retaliate not just militarily but also by targeting energy, IT, and desalination infrastructure across the region. This could lead to widespread blackouts, water shortages, and cyber disruptions in multiple countries.
Do the US Have the Capability?
The United States possesses advanced long-range strike capabilities, including cruise missiles and stealth bombers, capable of hitting strategic infrastructure deep inside Iran. However, experts stress that capability does not equal consequence-free action.
High-Stakes Situation
The situation remains extremely volatile, with rising military activity, missile exchanges, and threats on both sides. Any direct strike on Iran’s power grid could rapidly escalate beyond control, turning a regional conflict into a global crisis.