Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has warned that any US military strike against Iran would spark a broader regional war, as tensions between Tehran and Washington continue to escalate.
Speaking at a gathering in Tehran ahead of the 47th anniversary of Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution, Khamenei declared that if the US initiates military action, it would have far-reaching consequences across the entire region.
Khamenei dismissed the US deployment of aircraft carriers and warships to the Persian Gulf as routine intimidation tactics, saying they're nothing new.
He noted that American officials have repeatedly issued similar warnings in the past, often claiming that "all options are on the table," including military action.
"The Iranian nation should not be frightened by such things," Khamenei said, adding that the people of Iran are not influenced by these threats.
The warning comes after US President Donald Trump announced via social media that a massive "armada" was heading toward Iran, urging Tehran to enter immediate negotiations.
This statement triggered widespread speculation about potential US military action and prompted urgent diplomatic activity across the Middle East.
Khamenei emphasized Iran's defensive posture, stating that the Islamic Republic would not initiate conflict and does not seek to attack any country.
However, he warned that Iran would deliver a firm blow to anyone who attacks or harasses it.
He also addressed recent anti-government protests in Iran, describing them as "similar to a coup" that Iranian authorities successfully prevented.
Despite the heightened rhetoric, recent developments suggest potential diplomatic openings between the adversaries.
Senior Iranian official Ali Larijani said a "structured framework" for negotiations is taking shape and moving forward, while cautioning against excessive media hype surrounding the crisis.
Trump separately told reporters that Iran was "seriously talking" with Washington, suggesting channels of communication remain open.
The current standoff represents one of the most dangerous periods in US-Iran relations in recent years, with both nations possessing significant military capabilities in the strategically vital Persian Gulf region.
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