ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The Middle East’s largest steel producer in Iran has halted operations after sustaining heavy damage in US-Israeli airstrikes over the past few days, dealing a major blow to the country’s industrial sector.
Mobarakeh Steel Company, based in Isfahan, announced on Thursday a complete shutdown of its production lines after sustaining damage.
The US and Israel launched a military campaign against Iran in late February, initially striking thousands of military targets and, in recent days, extending attacks to the country’s energy facilities and, on Thursday, a major highway bridge connecting Tehran to Karaj.
"Based on assessments conducted thus far regarding the heavy volume of attacks, reports indicate sustained damages and major destruction to units related to the production process, which has led to a complete shutdown of the production lines," the company said in a statement.
The company added that safety concerns have forced it to suspend all activity.
"Under these circumstances, continuing operations is not possible," the statement read, urging employees not to report to work "until further notice."
Separately, Khouzestan Steel Company (KSC), located in Ahvaz, was also struck. According to Iran’s state news agency IRNA, the attack targeted key production facilities, forcing another major halt in output.
The strikes come amid the escalating conflict following the US-Israeli military campaign against Tehran that began on February 28, with US Central Command reporting that more than 12,300 targets have been hit since the operation began.
In retaliation, Tehran has carried out thousands of drone and missile attacks across the Middle East, targeting alleged US assets - particularly in Gulf Arab states - as well as launching retaliatory strikes against Israel.
Donald Trump said Thursday that US forces had destroyed a major bridge near Tehran and warned of further action.
"The biggest bridge in Iran comes tumbling down, never to be used again – Much more to follow!" Trump said, adding: "IT IS TIME FOR IRAN TO MAKE A DEAL BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE."
In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that attacks on civilian structures, including unfinished bridges, "will not compel Iranians to surrender."
He added, "It only conveys the defeat and moral collapse of an enemy in disarray. Every bridge and building will be built back stronger. What will never recover: damage to America's standing."
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