Iran has issued a stark warning that any future conflict with the United States could extend beyond previous engagements, asserting that Washington would not be in control of the conflict’s timing or terms. This declaration comes from Mohammad Akraminia, a spokesperson for the Iranian army, who emphasized Tehran’s readiness to respond to any military aggression.
The Iranian Defence Minister, Mehrdad Akhlaghi, reinforced this stance, stating that any attack on Iran would provoke a proportionate and decisive response. He stressed that Iran would not allow external forces to determine the scale, timing, or consequences of its defensive actions.
In addition, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps hinted at a broader impact of any potential conflict, suggesting that hostilities with the United States could have repercussions beyond a specific geographical area, potentially affecting a wider region.
Despite these warnings, diplomatic efforts continue as Iranian negotiators engage in discussions with Qatari mediators in Doha, aiming to find a resolution to the ongoing US-Israeli tensions with Iran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed Tehran’s openness to both diplomatic and defensive approaches, noting that talks over a proposed two-day initiative were still underway, although no final agreement had been reached.
The backdrop to these developments includes concerns over potential hostilities resuming after the November 3 US midterm elections. US President Donald Trump has indicated that no new attacks on Iran would occur before the vote, yet he has not dismissed the possibility of future military action, despite describing negotiations with Tehran as productive.