United States President Donald Trump has issued one of his strongest warnings yet to Iran, threatening an overwhelming military response if Tehran attempts to assassinate him, in a statement that is expected to heighten geopolitical tensions and keep global oil markets on edge ahead of Monday's trading session.
In a post published on his verified social media account, Trump declared that "1,000 missiles are locked and loaded" and aimed at Iran, warning that "thousands more" would immediately follow should the Iranian government carry out what he described as its assassination threat against him.
Trump added that orders had already been issued and that the U.S. military was "ready, willing and able" to sustain operations for up to one year, with the possibility of an extension, to "completely decimate and destroy all areas of Iran."
The latest warning marks a sharp escalation in rhetoric between Washington and Tehran and comes at a time when tensions in the Middle East remain fragile following recent military exchanges and heightened concerns over regional security. Any deterioration in relations between the two countries is closely watched by global energy markets because of the region's strategic importance to crude oil production and exports.
Energy traders are expected to closely monitor the development when international markets reopen on Monday, as any renewed escalation involving the United States and Iran could quickly influence crude oil prices and shipping risk across the Middle East, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route through which roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes.
Analysts say geopolitical developments involving Iran have historically triggered sharp swings in crude prices, with fears of supply disruptions often prompting traders to build a risk premium into the market. Market participants will therefore be watching closely for any official response from Tehran or further statements from Washington that could shape trading sentiment in the coming days.