Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said an attack by the United States would not stay limited and would turn into a wider regional conflict. State media reported his remarks as tensions between Tehran and Washington remain high.
The warning comes as the United States has increased its naval presence in the Middle East. President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened Iran with intervention if it refuses a nuclear deal or fails to stop internal unrest.
Referring to US military moves, Khamenei said, “(Trump) regularly says that he brought ships (...) The Iranian nation shall not be scared by these things, the Iranian people will not be stirred by these threats.”
He added that Iran does not seek war but will respond strongly if attacked. “We are not the initiators and do not want to attack any country, but the Iranian nation will strike a strong blow against anyone who attacks and harasses them.”
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Despite the sharp tone, Iran said diplomacy is still possible. Officials said Tehran is open to “fair” negotiations, as long as talks do not limit the country’s defensive capabilities.
According to officials, the US Navy currently has six destroyers, one aircraft carrier, and three littoral combat ships deployed in the region.
Khamenei also spoke about recent protests in Iran. The demonstrations began over economic problems and later turned into the biggest political challenge to the Islamic Republic since 1979. Authorities say the unrest has now subsided after a crackdown.
Official figures claim 3,117 people were killed during the unrest. However, the US-based HRANA rights group said it has verified 6,713 deaths so far. Reuters said it could not independently confirm the numbers.
State media quoted Khamenei as calling the protests a “coup”. He said the aim of the “sedition” was to attack the country’s governing centres.
The message from Tehran is clear and direct. Iran is trying to deter any US strike by warning of wider consequences. At the same time, Iran is keeping diplomacy alive to avoid war. The situation remains tense, and even a small move could change the balance in the region.
