A former advisor to President Barack Obama has warned of a potential “worst-case scenario” unfolding in the Middle East. He highlighted that Iran might intensify attacks on crucial energy facilities in the Gulf as the pressure mounts from President Donald Trump’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
Dennis Ross expressed concern that if Iran feels they can’t export oil, their response may be to target sensitive Gulf resources. His warning was clear: “The worst-case scenario is… they decide, ‘Okay, if we can’t export oil now and can’t generate revenue, we’re going to attack the most sensitive targets in the Gulf.’” This would be an attempt to pressure the U.S. into easing the situation.
Ross emphasized the need for the United States to prepare for possible Iranian retaliation aimed at vulnerable energy infrastructure in countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait.
He noted that if such attacks go unchecked, they could disrupt oil production and exacerbate tensions in the region.
He added, “If we don’t have enough capacity to prevent it, this situation could get out of control.” Ross mentioned that the administration is unlikely to destroy its own crucial facilities on Kharg Island, an essential energy site that is under scrutiny from the Trump administration, suggesting it’s something Iran still regards as necessary.
“They’re going to go after everything in the Gulf,” Ross warned. He also commented on the administration’s blockade strategy, stating that it serves as an alternative to the risk of occupying Kharg Island, which could leave U.S. forces vulnerable—a point he deemed much wiser than direct occupation.
Meanwhile, President Trump announced a definitive closure of the Strait of Hormuz in a recent interview, indicating that all countries would either receive full access to the waterway or none at all, regardless of alliances. He expressed confidence that many nations would rally in support, emphasizing the current state of “complete lockdown.”
This decision came on the heels of unsuccessful peace talks with Iranian officials held over the weekend in Pakistan.
