Iran Issues Warning to US Amid Rising Regional Tensions
Amid heightened concerns over the potential for military conflict in the Middle East, Iran's highest leadership has issued a strong warning to the United States, cautioning that any military action could escalate into a broader regional confrontation. The statement comes as tensions continue to rise following repeated threats of military strikes against Iran from the US government.
Iran's Supreme Leader emphasized that while the nation does not seek war and will not initiate hostilities, it remains prepared to respond forcefully to any acts of aggression. The leadership stressed Iran's resolve to defend itself and warned of significant repercussions should the US opt for military intervention.
Recent developments have contributed to growing unease about the possibility of conflict. The US administration, under President Donald Trump, has increased pressure on Tehran, including the deployment of additional naval assets to the region. The United States has also linked the possibility of de-escalation to Iran's willingness to negotiate, particularly regarding its nuclear program and the development of ballistic missiles.
In parallel, diplomatic efforts have been underway to ease tensions. Qatar's Foreign Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, visited Tehran for high-level discussions with Iranian officials, including the Deputy Foreign Minister and the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council. Qatar has previously acted as an intermediary between Iran and the United States, given its strong diplomatic ties with both nations. The visit has given rise to speculation about the delivery of messages or proposals from Washington, although no official details have been disclosed.
Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister stated that the country is prepared for both negotiation and conflict but reiterated that Iran's defense strategies and missile program are non-negotiable. According to Iranian officials, these issues represent red lines in any discussions with foreign powers.
On the military front, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had scheduled a naval exercise in the Gulf of Oman, with previous reports indicating possible participation from Russia and China. However, the timing of the joint exercise has since been adjusted, with official sources indicating that coordinated maneuvers with allied nations will occur in the coming weeks. The status of the planned IRGC-only exercise remains unclear.
Separately, an explosion occurred in the Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas, leading to speculation about a potential attack against a senior naval commander. Iranian state media have dismissed these claims, attributing the incident to a gas leak and confirming casualties and injuries among civilians.
Diplomatic strain has also intensified between Iran and European countries after the European Union's decision to designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization due to its role in suppressing recent mass protests. In response, Iran's parliament has declared the armed forces of European nations as terrorist groups, expanding the scope of reciprocal measures. Iranian lawmakers expressed their protest by donning Revolutionary Guard uniforms and chanting slogans against the US and Israel within parliament.
The European Union's move is viewed as largely symbolic, given existing sanctions already in place against Iran. The designation follows reports of significant casualties during demonstrations against the Iranian government, where security forces under the command of the Revolutionary Guard have been accused of using force to suppress dissent.
Iran's leadership has described the recent protests as attempts to destabilize the government, asserting that the objective was to undermine key state institutions. The ongoing standoff between Iran and Western powers continues to fuel concerns of a larger conflict in the region if diplomatic solutions are not found.