Iran Issues Stark Warnings to the US Amid Rising Tensions in the Middle East
Iran's Response to US Attacks
As tensions escalate in the Middle East, several Iranian officials have issued grave warnings regarding potential repercussions for the United States following attacks on Iran. In response to these US actions, Hossein Shariatmadari, a close aide to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stated that it is now time for Iran to take decisive action. He suggested that the first step should involve launching missile strikes against the US naval fleet stationed in Bahrain and closing the Strait of Hormuz to American, British, German, and French vessels. Shariatmadari is known to be a trusted confidant of Khamenei and serves as the managing editor of the Kayhan newspaper.
Awaiting Official Statements from Khamenei
Following the US attacks, there is anticipation for an official statement and response from Khamenei. However, a warning previously issued by the Supreme Leader was reposted on his Telegram account. In a televised address, Khamenei cautioned the US against military intervention in the Iran-Israel conflict, asserting that the damage incurred by the US would far exceed any harm to Iran. He emphasized that any American military action would undoubtedly result in irreparable losses, stating, 'The Americans must understand that they are entering this situation at 100% risk to themselves.'
Iran's Foreign Minister Reacts
In an initial response, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif took to social media to condemn the US actions, labeling them a serious violation of the UN Charter, international law, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Zarif described the morning's events as disgraceful, warning of their lasting consequences. He urged all UN member states to be alarmed by such dangerous, unlawful, and criminal behavior. According to the provisions of the UN Charter that allow for legitimate self-defense, Iran reserves the right to protect its sovereignty, interests, and citizens.
US Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Sites
In coordination with Israeli attacks aimed at halting Iran's nuclear programs, US forces launched strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities early Sunday. President Donald Trump announced that these facilities have been 'completely destroyed.' He further warned Iran that any retaliatory actions could lead to additional strikes. Trump stated that the US could target more sites with 'precision, intensity, and efficiency.' Addressing the nation from the White House, he declared, 'There will either be peace in Iran or a tragedy far worse than the calamity witnessed in the past eight days.'