Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warns of escalation as Donald Trump deadline looms over Strait of Hormuz
April 5, 2026: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has claimed responsibility for a fresh wave of attacks targeting petrochemical facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait, describing them as retaliation for recent US-Israeli strikes near Tehran. In a strongly worded statement, the Guard warned that any further attacks on civilian infrastructure would trigger a more intense and widespread response. The escalation comes amid rising tensions ahead of a 48-hour deadline set by Donald Trump regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
The latest strikes follow reported attacks on key Iranian infrastructure, including a bridge in Karaj and petrochemical sites, in what appears to be a continuing cycle of retaliation. Concerns are growing across the Gulf as threats expand to include energy facilities and desalination plants, raising the risk of a broader regional conflict. The situation intensified further after Israeli forces reportedly struck Beirut’s southern suburbs, with explosions heard across the city and increased aerial activity signaling possible continued operations.
Adding to the crisis, Iran has claimed it shot down multiple US aircraft in Isfahan, including transport planes and helicopters, though these claims remain contested. The developments follow confirmation from Donald Trump that US forces had carried out a high-risk rescue mission for a downed F-15E crew member. With threats escalating and multiple fronts opening, the conflict appears to be entering a more volatile and unpredictable phase.