Iran’s supreme leader cautioned on Sunday that any potential attack by the United States could trigger a “regional war” in the Middle East. This warning comes amidst escalating tensions, with U.S. President Donald Trump considering military action against Iran in response to its handling of recent nationwide protests.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, 86 years old, issued his most explicit threat yet as the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and accompanying American warships are stationed in the Arabian Sea. President Trump deployed these assets following Iran’s violent crackdown on the protests.
While it remains uncertain whether Trump will resort to military force, he has expressed willingness for negotiations with Iran. Khamenei, however, labeled the nationwide protests as a “coup,” indicating a firm stance by the Iranian government. Reports suggest tens of thousands have been detained since the demonstrations began, primarily driven by economic grievances.
Notably, Iran had scheduled a live-fire military exercise in the vital Strait of Hormuz over Sunday and Monday, a key passage for global oil trade. The U.S. military’s Central Command cautioned against any threats to American vessels during the drill or disruptions to commercial maritime traffic.
Khamenei addressed a crowd in Tehran during the commemoration of Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, accusing the U.S. of coveting Iran’s resources. He emphasized that Iran does not seek conflict but will respond forcefully to any aggression.
Regarding the protests, Khamenei condemned the unrest as an attempted coup, highlighting attacks on key infrastructure and institutions. Reports indicate a significant number of arrests and casualties, with conflicting figures released by different sources.
In parallel, Iran’s parliament speaker declared all European Union militaries as terrorist groups in response to the EU’s classification of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist entity. This reciprocal move is seen as symbolic and follows similar actions taken by Iran in the past.
President Trump has set red lines for potential military action against Iran, linking it to the treatment of protesters and detained individuals. He has also raised concerns about Iran’s nuclear program and emphasized the importance of negotiating a satisfactory deal. Trump indicated that Iran is engaging in serious discussions with the U.S. but refrained from confirming any decisions on potential actions against Iran.