As the United States intensifies its economic pressure with promises of unprecedented sanctions, Iran is weighing its options to retaliate beyond its borders. A primary concern remains the vulnerability of global energy supplies, with Iranian officials explicitly threatening to halt all oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz. With a significant portion of global energy traffic already disrupted by missile and drone threats, Tehran’s ability to further restrict maritime routes or target infrastructure creates a volatile environment that continues to keep oil prices on edge.

Beyond maritime disruptions, Iran’s regional strategy includes the potential to target energy facilities within neighboring Gulf states, which could serve as a direct challenge to the US-backed order. Simultaneously, the scope of the conflict is expanding into the digital and clandestine realms. Rather than relying solely on conventional military assets, reports suggest Tehran is increasingly utilizing cyber warfare to target critical infrastructure in the West, alongside alleged efforts to coordinate covert operations abroad, signaling that Iran is prepared to turn the "economic war" into a broader, multi-front confrontation.