Iran’s supreme leader issued a stark warning to the United States and Israel against initiating new military attacks following recent threats from both countries. The comments come amid heightened tensions after elections in the United States and Israel, raising concerns over a possible escalation in hostilities.
On Saturday, Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei convened with senior military officials, including armed forces chief Ali Abdollahi, army chief Amir Hatami, and Revolutionary Guards commander Ahmad Vahidi. During the meeting, Khamenei emphasized that any threats would be met with swift and broad retaliation. He also instructed military commanders to revise Iran’s target lists to encompass all tangible and intangible assets related to what he described as the “American-Zionist enemy.” These remarks follow earlier Iranian warnings that the country could disrupt undersea communication cables in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
The warning coincides with statements by U.S. President Donald Trump, who has indicated he is considering additional military operations against Iran after the U.S. midterm elections set for next week. In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu—who is yet to form a new government following elections held last Tuesday—described the current moment as a “historic, one-time opportunity” to remove the Iranian government. The political outcomes in both countries could significantly influence the trajectory of the conflict.
Despite the heightened rhetoric, Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi stated there are no immediate plans for direct talks with U.S. officials. He confirmed that diplomatic channels remain open through indirect mediation led by Qatar and Pakistan. Araghchi acknowledged receipt of a letter from U.S. Vice President JD Vance, delivered at Trump’s request, aimed at reviving negotiations and preventing further military actions. However, he noted Iran’s conditions remain firm and consultations between mediators are ongoing.
The current conflict traces back to February 28, when coordinated strikes by U.S. and Israeli forces targeted Iranian assets. Iran responded with attacks on American interests across the region, during which Tehran restricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil shipments. The resulting disruption has contributed to increased global energy prices and growing unease within the U.S., particularly ahead of the upcoming congressional elections.
Voices within Tehran reflect varied perspectives on the potential for renewed conflict. Some residents, like Ebrahim, a local salesman, expressed resignation born from decades of hostility, saying, “We do not fear another war. We have been at war for 48 years now.” Meanwhile, others voiced concern over the ongoing uncertainty affecting daily life.
An Iranian military spokesperson, Mohammad Akaraminia, cautioned that any renewal of hostilities would likely broaden the war’s geographical scope, warning that “the flames of war will undoubtedly engulf a much wider geographical area.” The situation remains fragile as diplomatic efforts continue amid unresolved political uncertainties in both nations.