Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf Rebukes Donald Trump, Warns Oil Prices Could Hit $140

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has strongly pushed back against recent remarks by former US President Donald Trump regarding Iran’s oil infrastructure, escalating a war of words amid heightened geopolitical tensions.

Trump had suggested that Iran’s oil facilities could soon face catastrophic failures under mounting pressure, claiming that disruptions to exports could trigger internal breakdowns. His comments came as part of broader US efforts to curb Iran’s oil trade, particularly through restrictions around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

Responding sharply, Ghalibaf dismissed Trump’s assertions as baseless and politically motivated. He pointed out that the predicted disruptions had not materialised even days after the claims were made, ridiculing the suggestion that Iran’s oil infrastructure was on the verge of collapse. The Iranian leader indicated that the country’s energy sector remains stable despite ongoing external pressure.

Ghalibaf also criticised US policymakers, including Treasury officials, arguing that their strategies have failed to weaken Iran and instead created unintended consequences in global markets. According to him, attempts to restrict Iranian oil exports have contributed to tightening global supply, driving up crude prices rather than achieving their intended objective.

Highlighting the broader economic impact, Ghalibaf warned that oil prices could surge dramatically if tensions persist, potentially reaching as high as $140 per barrel. He suggested that continued restrictions and geopolitical friction could strain supply chains and intensify volatility in the energy market.

The United States has defended its approach as a necessary measure to limit Iran’s revenue streams and push Tehran toward negotiations. However, Iranian officials maintain that their economy and oil industry have adapted to years of sanctions and remain resilient in the face of external challenges.

The exchange underscores the fragile dynamics surrounding global energy security, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining a focal point of concern. Any prolonged disruption in the region could have significant implications for international oil markets, potentially affecting fuel prices and inflation worldwide.