Iran Warns US and Israel: New Attacks Will Bring Strong Response
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a severe warning to the United States and Israel on Saturday. He spoke out against any new military attacks in the region. This comes as concerns grow about more fighting after recent threats.
The United States has threatened new military action. President Donald Trump said last week he might “finish the conflict” after the US midterm elections. These elections will happen early next week.
In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also spoken. He called it a special chance to change the Iranian government. Israel recently held elections but has not yet formed a new government.
Mr. Khamenei told his top military leaders that any threat must be met with an immediate and strong response. This response could happen across a wide area, he added. This was the first public meeting between Mr. Khamenei and military officials.
Iran’s Supreme Leader also ordered military commanders to update Iran’s target list. It should include all kinds of American and Israeli assets. Iran has previously warned it might cut undersea cables in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran’s top diplomat said there were no plans for direct talks with the United States. Indirect mediation through Qatar is still happening. Qatar and Pakistan have been trying to help both sides reach an agreement.
The war began on February 28 with US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Iran quickly responded with attacks on American targets in nearby countries. This conflict has disrupted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. This waterway normally carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil.
The blockade has caused global oil prices to rise. This has made the war unpopular among the US public before the upcoming elections.
Fresh diplomatic efforts are now underway to stop fighting from starting again. Qatari mediators arrived in Tehran on Friday. US Vice President JD Vance also sent a letter to Iran’s security chief, Mohsen Rezaei.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, confirmed receiving Mr. Vance’s letter. He called the American effort to talk a positive step. However, Mr. Araghchi repeated Iran’s strong warnings against more attacks.
He stated that Iran’s powerful armed forces would deliver an “Earth-shattering blow” to anyone who harms its people. Mr. Araghchi added that there would be no “red lines” anymore. Army spokesman Mohammad Akaraminia also warned that any new hostilities would make the war spread much wider.
