Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned on Sunday that any US military attack on Iran would trigger a “regional war” in the Middle East, sharply escalating tensions with Washington.His comments come as US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln operates in the Arabian Sea following Iran’s violent crackdown on nationwide protests and amid threats by President Donald Trump of possible military action.
Khamenei accused the United States of hostility but said Iran would not initiate conflict, warning it would respond forcefully to any attack or harassment. He also hardened his stance on the protests, calling them a “coup” aimed at destabilising the state.
Demonstrations that began in late December over economic grievances evolved into broader opposition to his rule, with tens of thousands reportedly detained. Concerns persist that those arrested could face severe punishment, including the death penalty.
Iran announced live-fire military drills in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil route, drawing warnings from US Central Command against threatening American forces or commercial shipping. Meanwhile, Iran’s parliament declared EU militaries “terrorist groups” after the bloc designated the Revolutionary Guard a terror organisation.
Trump has said Iran should negotiate over its nuclear programme but declined to confirm whether military action is imminent.