Iran Threatens Escalation and Nuclear Doctrine Shift in Response to New US Sanctions

Iran has firmly stated it will respond forcefully to the latest US sanctions announced by President Donald Trump and the US Treasury Secretary, aimed at crippling the Iranian regime's economy by targeting countries trading with Iran. Tehran warned of escalating the conflict, including economic and military measures, refusing to yield under pressure.

Among Iran's possible responses is leveraging its influence on global oil prices by threatening to halt all oil exports through the strategic Strait of Hormuz and other Persian Gulf routes. Mohsen Rezaei, head of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, declared that if the economic war continues, no oil will flow through Hormuz. Analysts note Iran could expand attacks on oil tankers using missiles, drones, mines, or commando operations, and intensify coordination with the Houthi rebels who have partially blockaded the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Iran may also renew attacks on Gulf states, particularly Kuwait and Jordan, which had seen a recent lull in hostilities. Tehran warned of "earthquake-level" retaliation against Gulf countries cooperating with US sanctions, including possible strikes on US military bases and naval vessels enforcing the embargo.

Beyond the Gulf, Iran signaled potential actions against NATO member Bulgaria, where US refueling aircraft are stationed, and possibly other European countries like Cyprus, which have been targeted before. Cyberattacks linked to Iran have recently hit a UK power station and US water facilities, indicating Tehran's willingness to expand its campaign against the West.

Domestically, Iran is debating withdrawing from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which it has long claimed to honor for peaceful purposes. The Iranian parliament is considering legislation to leave the treaty, with senior officials questioning why Iran should not pursue nuclear weapons amid US hostility.

This escalation in rhetoric and potential military and economic actions reflects Tehran's determination not to back down from US pressure, signaling a possible intensification of regional and international tensions in the coming months.