Iran Prepares for More Intense War as Energy Prices Soar
The conflict between Iran and the US has entered its seventh month, with both sides refusing to back down. According to a senior Iranian official, Tehran is prepared for a more intense war and will escalate counterstrikes if the US continues attacking its territory and infrastructure.
The official stated that Iran has replenished its military capabilities since April and has enough missiles for a lengthy conflict. The comments come as hostilities between the two countries show little sign of easing, with the latest exchange including US strikes on Iranian oil tankers and Iranian missile attacks on US-linked targets and commercial vessels.
The tit-for-tat strikes have pushed up energy prices, with Brent crude climbing above $100 a barrel. The blockade imposed by the US is also hurting Iran's economy, with inflation accelerating to almost 90% and the rial depreciating rapidly.