Al-Muhandis headquarters: We announce to the leaders of the UAE that we have the right to strike the source of the missiles, including shipping ports and hideouts of American military personnel

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters has declared the UAE and U.S. military assets in the region as legitimate targets, including shipping ports and facilities housing American personnel, following the escalation of hostilities between Iran and the U.S.-Israel alliance according to BBC reports. This announcement comes amid ongoing disruptions to global energy markets, as Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz—accounting for 20% of global oil and gas transit—has triggered sharp price volatility. Brent crude recently traded above $90 per barrel, with analysts warning of potential spikes to $200 if the strait remains blocked.

The UAE’s AD Ports Group reported that operations at key terminals, including Fujairah and Zayed ports, continue despite drone strikes that prompted temporary suspensions earlier this week as reported by TWZ. However, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has authorized the release of 400 million barrels of oil reserves to stabilize markets, marking its largest intervention in history according to Tribune India. Meanwhile, Qatar’s Ras Laffan LNG plant, the world’s largest liquefied natural gas export facility, has halted shipments for five consecutive days, exacerbating concerns over global gas supplies as reported.

Iran’s threats to target ports and economic infrastructure underscore the region’s vulnerability to further disruptions. The UAE’s Ministry of Defense emphasized that its air defenses have intercepted 268 ballistic missiles and 1,514 drones since the conflict began according to BBC. Analysts caution that prolonged instability could force countries to diversify supply chains, accelerating investments in alternative routes such as Saudi Arabia’s East-West oil pipeline as reported. The financial implications of sustained hostilities remain severe, with energy markets bracing for prolonged uncertainty.