Iran’s Supreme Leader Warns US Strike Would Trigger Regional Conflict Amid Escalating Tensions

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a stark warning Sunday that any US military strike against Iran would ignite a broader regional war, as tensions between Tehran and Washington reach critical levels following recent threats from President Donald Trump.

Speaking at a gathering in Tehran ahead of the 47th anniversary of Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, which ended the Pahlavi dynasty, Khamenei declared that if the United States initiates military action, “it would spill over across the entire region.”

The Supreme Leader dismissed Washington’s recent deployment of aircraft carriers and warships to the Persian Gulf as routine intimidation tactics, saying such moves represent “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.

“Now this man too constantly claims that ‘we brought warships’ and so on,” Khamenei said, referring to Trump. “The Iranian nation should not be frightened by such things. The people of Iran are not influenced by these threats.”

Last Wednesday, Trump announced via social media that a massive “armada” was heading toward Iran, urging Tehran to enter immediate negotiations. The statement triggered widespread speculation about potential US military action, prompted urgent diplomatic activity across the Middle East, and elicited strong reactions from Iranian officials.

Khamenei emphasised Iran’s defensive posture, stating the Islamic Republic would not initiate conflict and “does not seek to attack any country.” However, he warned Iran would “deliver a firm blow to anyone who attacks or harasses it.”

The Supreme Leader also addressed recent anti-government protests in Iran, describing the demonstrations as “similar to a coup” that Iranian authorities successfully prevented. He claimed the unrest aimed to “destroy sensitive and effective centers involved in running the country.” Iranian officials have accused the United States and Israel of supporting what they characterize as “rioters” and “terrorists” who committed violent acts during the protests.

Despite the heightened rhetoric, recent developments suggest potential diplomatic openings between the adversaries. On Saturday, senior Iranian official Ali Larijani said a “structured framework” for negotiations is “taking shape and moving forward,” while cautioning against what he called 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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