Iran has issued a warning to Gulf states, asserting that any new U.S. military action against Tehran could result in retaliatory strikes targeting their oil, power, and water infrastructure, potentially turning the region into a "fireball."
This strategic diplomatic push aims to persuade Washington's Arab allies to urge President Donald Trump to cease strikes on Iran and pursue negotiations to end the ongoing conflict. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi conveyed this warning to his counterparts from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Qatar, as well as Pakistan's army chief, according to sources speaking on condition of anonymity.
Araqchi emphasized that U.S. allies in the Gulf should dissuade Trump from launching renewed strikes, threatening prompt retaliation against U.S. assets and critical infrastructure, including energy facilities, oil fields, refineries, electricity grids, and water infrastructure. This diplomatic notice followed President Trump's threat on July 28 to strike Iran's energy network and infrastructure.
"We're ready to retaliate, but finding a diplomatic solution is the best way to avoid wider escalation and destruction across the region," Araqchi reportedly told Gulf state officials. A senior diplomat confirmed this statement.
Following these warnings, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman reportedly spoke with President Trump, imploring him to refrain from further military action, return to negotiations, and seek a ceasefire. Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia have collectively urged the U.S. to resume talks with Tehran and deter continued conflict, with a second Iranian official noting Tehran's warning that further U.S. military action could "turn the region into a fireball."
A Gulf source stated, "Saudi Arabia believes further escalation will only bring more destruction. That is why it urged Trump to give diplomacy a chance."
President Trump subsequently agreed to cancel an attack on Iran, reportedly stating it was "subject to being able to rapidly make a deal."
The diplomatic exchanges occur as the U.S., Iran, and Oman are reportedly nearing an agreement. This potential deal could temporarily reopen the Strait of Hormuz without tolls and initiate another two months of nuclear talks. However, Tehran maintains that Washington should not be part of this agreement. U.S. and regional sources indicated to Axios that the proposed agreement would establish a 60-day arrangement between Oman and Iran concerning shipping in the strategic strait.