Iran Warns US: Any Attack Will Ignite Regional War as Tensions Escalate
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a stark warning Sunday, asserting that any military action initiated by the United states would inevitably trigger a broader “regional war” in the Middle East. The declaration comes amid heightened tensions, fueled by President Donald Trump’s threats of military strikes against the Islamic Republic and the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier to the Arabian Sea.
The escalating situation centers on Iran’s violent suppression of nationwide protests and concerns over its nuclear program. While the possibility of military intervention remains unclear, the rhetoric from both sides is intensifying. According to reports, tens of thousands have been detained since the demonstrations began, raising fears of mass executions – a scenario President Trump has identified as a potential trigger for military action.
Khamenei’s comments, delivered via iranian state television, represent his most direct threat to date.”The Americans should no that if they start a war, this time it will be a regional war,” he stated. He further emphasized that Iran does not seek conflict but will “deliver a firm blow to anyone who attacks or harasses it.”
The backdrop to this volatile situation includes Iran’s planned live-fire military drill in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil transport. The U.S. military has cautioned against any actions that could threaten American forces or disrupt commercial shipping during the exercise.
The Supreme leader also characterized the recent protests as a “coup,” signaling a hardening of the government’s stance against dissent. He alleged that protesters targeted critical infrastructure, including police stations, government buildings, and religious sites, even claiming copies of the Quran were burned.
Adding another layer of complexity, Iran’s parliament speaker announced that the Islamic Republic now considers all European Union militaries to be terrorist groups. This retaliatory measure follows the EU’s designation of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist institution due to its crackdown on protesters.Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, a former Guard commander, argued that the EU’s actions were counterproductive and driven by “blind obedience to the Americans.” Lawmakers at the session reportedly chanted “Death to America!” and “death to Israel!”
Despite the bellicose rhetoric, President Trump has indicated a willingness to negotiate with iran. He has repeatedly stated that Iran is seeking dialog and has highlighted the need to address Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. However, he has also laid out clear “red lines” – the killing of peaceful protesters and the potential for mass executions.
Recent activity at Iranian nuclear sites, including efforts to obscure satellite views, suggests Iran is attempting to salvage its nuclear program following U.S. bombing raids during a 12-day war with Israel in June.
On Saturday night, President Trump remained noncommittal about a potential military response, stating, “Some people think that [backing away from strikes would embolden Iran]. Some people don’t.” He affirmed his desire for a “satisfactory” deal to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, adding, “I don’t know that they will. But they are talking to us. Seriously talking to us.” A top Iranian security official, Ali Larijani, reportedly stated on X that “structural arrangements for negotiations are progressing,” though no public evidence of direct talks h
