Recent developments have escalated tensions between Iran and the United States, notably over critical maritime chokepoints. Iran has issued warnings regarding the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab El-Mandeb Strait, threatening to retaliate if US strikes continue, which includes potential blockades of these vital routes. The Iranian military has stated that it will target regional infrastructure in response to US actions, indicating that the controversy could further disrupt oil and gas exports from the Middle East. In addition, Iran has reportedly instructed the Houthis to prepare for actions to close the Red Sea gateway if US strikes on Iranian power networks proceed. As US military operations intensify, oil prices are climbing amid fears of further regional instability.