Iran’s military leadership has issued a stern warning to the United States and Israel against potential military action, declaring its armed forces at maximum alert status following significant US military deployments in the Persian Gulf region.
Defense Minister Amir Hatami stated through the official IRNA news agency that any hostile move by adversaries would jeopardize regional security and specifically endanger Israel’s stability. He emphasized Iran’s complete defensive preparedness, noting that any miscalculation by opponents would have severe consequences.
The escalating tensions coincide with substantial US military reinforcements in the Middle East, including the strategic positioning of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier battle group. President Donald Trump previously characterized this deployment as a ‘massive armada’ approaching Iranian territory, simultaneously indicating that diplomatic opportunities were diminishing.
The current crisis stems from nearly a month of escalating rhetoric from the Trump administration, which has considered military options following Iran’s suppression of widespread protests. The demonstrations, initially triggered by economic hardships including rampant inflation, resulted in significant casualties according to various reports.
Middle East Eye reported earlier this week that Washington contemplated precision strikes against Iranian officials allegedly responsible for protester deaths during recent civil unrest. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian countered these allegations, accusing Western powers and Israel of exploiting domestic economic challenges to destabilize the nation.
Casualty figures from the unrest vary considerably, with HRANA documenting over 6,500 fatalities while Iranian officials acknowledge approximately 3,100 deaths, including numerous security personnel.
Regional powers including Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia have intensified diplomatic initiatives to prevent military confrontation. Meanwhile, the fundamental disagreement persists regarding Iran’s ballistic missile program, which Washington demands be curtailed as a precondition for negotiations—a condition Tehran consistently rejects.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, speaking from Turkey, unequivocally stated that Iran’s defense capabilities remain non-negotiable while expressing openness to equitable diplomatic discussions. Despite these declarations, no formal communication channels between the two nations have been established regarding potential dialogue frameworks.