Tehran Warns of Retaliation Against U.S. Allies in Gulf After Trump’s ‘Large and Powerful’ Strikes

Trump Confirms ‘Large and Powerful’ Strikes

President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that the United States had launched “large and powerful” military strikes against Iran, framing the operation as retaliation for what he described as a failed Iranian attempt to mine the Strait of Hormuz.

“The strikes were in retaliation for the Iranians’ failed attempt at adding sea mines” in the Strait of Hormuz, Trump wrote.

The strategic waterway, through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil passes, has long been a flashpoint for U.S.-Iranian tensions. The mine-laying attempt, according to the U.S. administration, was thwarted before it could disrupt international shipping.

Gulf Allies in the Crosshairs

While the immediate impact of the U.S. strikes is still being assessed, military analysts and regional officials warn that Tehran’s response is likely to extend beyond direct confrontation with American forces. Iran is expected to increase pressure on U.S. allies and partners in the Gulf, which host significant American military bases, naval assets, and energy infrastructure.

The possible retaliation vector includes:

• Asymmetric attacks: Iran-backed proxies in Yemen, Iraq, or Syria could target Gulf states’ critical infrastructure or American interests.
• Cyber operations: Tehran has a history of launching disruptive cyberattacks against Saudi Aramco and other Gulf energy companies.
• Shipping disruption: Iran could threaten commercial vessels or conduct harassment operations near the Strait of Hormuz, directly impacting global energy markets.
• Diplomatic coercion: Gulf governments may face pressure to distance themselves from Washington or risk being drawn into a wider conflict.

Regional Security on Edge

U.S. military bases in Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait are all potential flashpoints. Any Iranian retaliation that even tangentially affects these countries could quickly escalate into a broader regional war. Gulf states, many of which have sought to balance their security ties with Washington while maintaining diplomatic channels with Tehran, are now forced to recalibrate their posture.

So far, Gulf governments have not publicly aligned with the U.S. strikes, but several have activated emergency security measures and are urging restraint through back channels. The coming days will be critical in determining whether Iran opts for a calibrated response or a more aggressive asymmetric campaign, with the Strait of Hormuz once again at the center of global attention.