Iran has threatened to launch attacks on the Red Sea if Donald Trump decides to target the country’s Kharg Island. Tasnim reported the source warned that any US strike on the vital oil export hub would trigger an “unprecedented response”, potentially spreading instability to key global shipping routes.

The military figure claimed disruption in strategic waterways such as the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea was among the options being considered, raising fears of wider regional escalation. They also argued Washington was facing a “major dilemma” over Iran’s oil infrastructure and the strategic Strait of Hormuz, warning tensions could rapidly spiral. The source added that an attack on Kharg Island could disrupt oil production and lead to strikes on regional energy facilities, increasing risks for US forces and allies.

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They further warned the conflict could expand beyond the Persian Gulf and affect key maritime chokepoints, with potential knock-on consequences for global energy markets.

The news comes a day after Trump launched a major offensive in a bid to reopen the crucial Strait of Hormuz, as fears over the rapidly increasing price of oil soar.

The US has deployed Apache helicopters and low-flying jets to strike Iranian ships in the crucial shipping channel, which Iran closed earlier this month.

American plans to invade the island also may have an unintended impact causing temporary disruption to oil production.

There are also reports that if an invasion took place Iran could ignite oil facilities in the region, escalating the situation for the United States and the wider region. Finally, there are also concerns that Americans would be unable to protect Kharg Island due to its geography with the island possibly sustaining damage unseen since World War II.

Further disruption to oil distribution could cause Brits even more pounds at the pumps. The government was keen to play down the prospect of rationing fuel, insisting Britain is well stocked with fuel.

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “Both the AA and Fuels Industry UK have been clear drivers should fill up as normal, with fuel production and imports continuing across the UK as usual with no issues reported.”