Iranian commander warns Tehran may leverage the Strait of Hormuz against the U.S. and Israel, while UAE revokes licenses of Iranian schools, and missile debris reportedly strikes a building used by the U.S. consul in Israel
Tehran: Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East took a sharp turn after a senior Iranian military commander warned that Iran could use control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz as a pressure point against its rivals.
The warning comes amid escalating confrontation involving Iran, Israel and the United States, raising concerns about the stability of global shipping routes and regional security.
Iran Warns of Strategic Leverage
Speaking on the evolving conflict, Ali Abdollahi, a senior Iranian military commander, stated that the country’s armed forces are prepared to use all geopolitical tools available, including control of maritime routes, to counter what he described as aggression.
Abdollahi, who heads the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, said Iran had already inflicted “heavy blows” on its adversaries.
“Iran did not initiate the war, but it will determine how it ends,” Abdollahi said, asserting that the United States and Israel would eventually have “no choice but to surrender.”
The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints, with a significant portion of global energy shipments passing through the narrow waterway every day.
UAE Revokes Licenses of Iranian Schools
In a separate development, United Arab Emirates authorities have reportedly revoked the operating licenses of five Iranian educational institutions, leaving approximately 2,500 students uncertain about their academic future.
According to Mohammad Salimi, the closures have created serious challenges for Iranian families whose children were studying in these institutions.
Reports indicate that authorities in the UAE also ordered the closure of several institutions linked to the Iranian government, including the Iranian Hospital, Iranian schools and the Iranian Club in Dubai.
Staff members sent from Iran to work at these institutions were reportedly instructed to leave the country, further intensifying tensions between the two nations.
Missile Fragment Hits Building in Israel
Meanwhile, Israeli media reported that a fragment from an Iranian missile struck a residential building used by the U.S. consul in Israel, adding another layer of concern to the already volatile situation.
Authorities are assessing the impact of the incident while monitoring the broader security environment.
Norway Warns Conflict Is Escalating
Reacting to the developments, Jonas Gahr Støre warned that the conflict appears to be rapidly escalating.
The store said the overall strategy behind the ongoing military campaign remains unclear, raising concerns among international leaders about the possibility of a wider regional confrontation.
Analysts warn that continued escalation could have serious implications for global energy markets, maritime trade and diplomatic stability across the Middle East.
