Tensions between Iran and the United States escalated sharply after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a broad warning that any renewed military strikes by the US or Israel could trigger retaliation extending far beyond the Middle East, even as diplomatic messaging from both sides remained uncertain. The IRGC statement, published on its Sepah News website, warned that any repeat of attacks would lead to what it described as a wider regional war expanding beyond traditional conflict zones.
The message stated that Iran’s response would involve “crushing blows” reaching targets in “places you cannot even imagine,” signalling an expansion of deterrence rhetoric beyond the region. In the same statement, the IRGC emphasised that it had not yet deployed all of its capabilities, suggesting that Tehran retains additional military capacity despite ongoing tensions. The language underscored Iran’s attempt to project strategic deterrence while signalling restraint in its current operational posture.
The warning came alongside remarks from US President Donald Trump, who told reporters he was “in no hurry” to reach a deal but could authorise further strikes if negotiations collapse. He reportedly referenced a possible timeframe of “Friday, Saturday, Sunday — maybe early next week,” while maintaining that he hoped to avoid renewed conflict.
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Trump also suggested that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would align with US decisions, framing the situation as one that could either end in a diplomatic agreement or renewed military escalation. The comments reflected heightened uncertainty around the trajectory of US-Iran relations amid ongoing indirect nuclear negotiations.Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated that diplomatic channels remain open, stating that Iran has complied with its commitments and continues to prefer negotiation over confrontation.
He emphasised that “mutual respect” remains essential for any sustainable agreement, warning that coercion would not compel Iran to yield. The exchange of statements highlights a fragile and increasingly volatile diplomatic environment, where rhetoric from both sides continues to oscillate between negotiation and the possibility of military escalation, keeping regional and global stakeholders on alert.
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