ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Iran’s top joint military command has warned that any renewed US attack could engulf the wider region, as President Donald Trump weighs whether to resume major strikes against Tehran after more than six months of war.
Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters has repeatedly warned that further US attacks would bring a broader and more destructive response, including strikes on bases and infrastructure across the region used to support Washington’s military campaign. In an earlier warning, the command said that if the war expanded, “the flames of war” would engulf countries cooperating with the United States.
“According to information received, criminal America… has once again decided, with the green light from some countries in the region, to resume actions against Islamic Iran at a joint meeting in a European country,” the top Iranian military command said in a statement carried by state media adding that any country in the region that aligns itself with the US should expect no restraints on the part of Tehran.
“We warn that if the United States makes any mistake against Islamic Iran, all of its bases and interests in the region will be subjected, without any limitation or consideration, to continuous, effective and painful attacks.”
President Trump is expected to meet with the heads of several Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar in New York on the sideline of the UN General Assembly annual meeting on Tuesday. Axios reported earlier this week that Trump is approaching a major decision over Iran and wants to consult with the regional countries before a possible major bombing campaign against Tehran.
President Trump is under growing pressure at home as the midterm elections approach, with gasoline prices surging above $4 a gallon nationwide and voter frustration over the economy deepening. Recent national polls show Democrats holding a clear lead over Republicans on the generic congressional ballot, adding to concerns within the GOP about November.
Iran top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf reiterated today Tehran’s recent stance that the Strait of Hormuz will not be reopened unless Washington met Iran’s demands. Ghalibaf spoke today in his speech at the Iranian parliament and also added that continuing to fight for over was not the right approach the same way capitulation to Washington’s demands was not an option either.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) have meanwhile responded increasingly rapidly to recent US strikes, launching missiles and drones at American bases and facilities across the region within hours of attacks on Iranian territory. After strikes earlier this month, Khatam al-Anbiya said Tehran’s response would become “heavier, broader and more destructive” if Washington continued its attacks.
Tehran has also hardened its position over the Strait of Hormuz.
The escalating rhetoric leaves Washington facing a decision over whether renewed strikes could force Tehran back towards an agreement — or trigger another round of attacks across the Gulf.
