North India Statesman
[ad_1]
News India Live, Digital Desk: The increasing tension between America and Iran has now reached a point where the path of return appears dangerous. Iran’s powerful leader and former Revolutionary Guards commander Mohsin Rezai has given a direct and very strong warning to US President Donald Trump. Rezai has said that if America dares to launch any kind of attack on Iranian soil, Iran will “completely cripple” America in retaliation. His statement has added fuel to the already burning fire in the Middle East.
‘Trump should stay within his limits’: Iran’s strong message
Mohsen Rezaei, while addressing a public meeting, said that Iran does not want war, but it is not one to bow down either. Attacking Donald Trump’s ‘Maximum Pressure’ policy, he said that America should give up boasting about its military power. Rezaei was referring to Iran’s missile capabilities and ‘proxy warriors’ that have the power to target US targets across the region. He made it clear that Iran’s reaction would be so severe that America would remember it for decades.
Threat to the Strait of Hormuz and the global economy
The biggest impact of this threat from Iran is likely to be on the ‘Strait of Hormuz’. Rezaei indicated that Iran would not shy away from closing this waterway in the event of war. About one-third of the world’s maritime oil trade takes place through this route. If Iran follows through on its threat, oil prices will skyrocket in the global market, which could cause a deep blow to the economy of the entire world, including America.
White House’s silence and Trump’s next step
There is currently no official statement from the White House on Iran’s tough stance, but the Pentagon has increased its military presence in the Gulf region. Donald Trump had earlier also warned Iran of facing ‘serious consequences’. Experts believe that the Trump administration may be planning a major military operation to reduce Iran’s nuclear program and regional influence, to stop which Iran is now resorting to ‘mind games’ and ‘missile diplomacy’.
Strategic challenge increased for India
This ‘war of words’ between Iran and America has drawn lines of worry on India’s forehead. Iran is an important strategic partner for India, especially in terms of Chabahar port and energy supplies. If the conflict between the two countries escalates, India will have to work hard to maintain its neutrality and ensure the safety of millions of Indians stranded there. There is discussion in diplomatic circles that India can be active behind the scenes to reduce this tension.
