Hegseth Says Iran War Entering Decisive Phase as Tehran Threatens US Companies/ TezzBuzz/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned the coming days in the Iran war will be decisive. Iran threatened to target major U.S. companies in retaliation for attacks. Oil prices surged after a tanker strike and escalating regional tensions.
- Hegseth says decisive days ahead in Iran war
- Iran threatens U.S. companies across region
- Oil tanker attacked near Dubai
- Oil prices surge toward record monthly gain
- U.S. troops reinforce Middle East presence
- China and Pakistan call for ceasefire
- U.S. gas prices rise above $4 per gallon
- Conflict spreads across Middle East
WASHINGTON/JERUSALEM — U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned Tuesday that the coming days in the escalating Iran war will be decisive, while Iran issued new threats targeting major American companies operating in the region.
The latest developments highlight growing tensions as the month-long conflict spreads across the Middle East, disrupts global energy markets and raises fears of broader escalation.
Hegseth said negotiations remain possible but warned the United States is prepared to intensify military operations if Iran does not agree to a deal.
“We have more and more options, and they have less,” Hegseth said in Washington. “In only one month we set the terms — the upcoming days will be decisive.”
Iran Threatens Major US Companies
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards issued a warning that U.S. companies operating in the region could be targeted beginning Wednesday. The threat included major multinational firms such as:
- Microsoft
- Apple
- Intel
- IBM
- Tesla
- Boeing
The warning comes as Iran seeks retaliation for U.S. and Israeli strikes launched since Feb. 28.
The threats raise concerns that cyberattacks, sabotage or regional strikes could extend the conflict beyond traditional military targets.
Oil Tanker Attack Sparks Energy Concerns
Tensions escalated further after a drone strike hit the Kuwait-flagged oil tanker Al-Salmi near Dubai, setting the vessel ablaze.
Authorities said:
- The fire was later contained
- No injuries were reported
- No oil spill occurred
- The ship’s hull sustained damage
The tanker carried approximately 2 million barrels of oil valued at more than $200 million. Data showed it was transporting Saudi and Kuwaiti crude to China.
Iran later suggested the intended target may have been a nearby container ship allegedly linked to Israel.
Oil Prices Surge to Record Monthly Gains
Following the tanker attack, crude oil prices surged again:
Higher oil prices are already affecting global economies and consumer spending.
U.S. gasoline prices crossed $4 per gallon for the first time in more than three years, according to GasBuddy.
Rising fuel costs have also become a political challenge for President Donald Trump ahead of upcoming midterm elections.
US Military Expands Operations
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine said U.S. forces continue degrading Iran’s military capabilities.
According to officials:
- Over 150 Iranian naval vessels destroyed
- Manufacturing and weapons sites targeted
- Reports of widespread desertions in Iranian forces
Thousands of troops from the elite 82nd Airborne Division have begun arriving in the Middle East, potentially expanding options for ground operations.
Conflict Spreads Across Region
The war continues to widen geographically:
Israel also conducted overnight airstrikes in Tehran targeting missile factories, research centers and launch systems.
Casualties continue to rise across the region, with Iran reporting the highest death toll.
Diplomacy Efforts Continue
Despite escalating attacks, diplomatic efforts are underway.
China and Pakistan called for an immediate ceasefire during talks in Beijing, urging both sides to resume negotiations.
Iran has received U.S. peace proposals through intermediaries but described them as “unrealistic, illogical and excessive.”
Hegseth said the United States remains open to negotiations but warned military pressure will continue if Iran refuses to compromise.
Global Economic Risks Grow
The conflict is increasingly affecting:
- Global oil supply
- Energy prices
- Inflation pressures
- Financial markets
Analysts warn prolonged fighting could destabilize the global economy if oil supply disruptions continue.
As the conflict enters what U.S. officials describe as a decisive phasethe coming days may determine whether diplomacy or further escalation defines the next stage of the Iran war.
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