Retired Admiral William H. McRaven appeared on Fox News on Wednesday, cautioning that Iran could retaliate against the energy infrastructure of its Gulf neighbors if the United States targets Iranian energy assets.
The warning comes after Iranian officials issued fresh threats following the collapse of talks in Pakistan on Tuesday. McRaven urged restraint, advising the U.S. against escalating military action and instead recommending a temporary easing of sanctions to reopen the path for negotiations.
Background: Trump’s Ultimatum and the Strait of Hormuz Crisis
The standoff centers on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint through which roughly one-fifth of global oil trade normally passes. Iran has effectively restricted shipping in the waterway amid the broader conflict with the US and Israel that began in late February 2026.
Trump has issued multiple deadlines and threats, stating that failure to fully reopen the strait would result in the US “obliterating” Iran’s power plants, bridges, and energy infrastructure. In one statement, he warned of striking “every single power plant and every single bridge in Iran” if no deal is reached. Deadlines have been extended several times, with Trump linking any further military action to Iran’s compliance and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Iran has responded defiantly, keeping the strait largely closed and signaling it will remain so until the US lifts its naval blockade on Iranian ports.