Iran Warns of ‘Regional War’ as Tensions With US Escalate

Iran’s Supreme Leader says Tehran is not seeking conflict but vows a decisive response if attacked, amid mediation efforts in the Middle East

Iran–US tensions continued to rise on Sunday after Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a strong warning to Washington, cautioning that any military confrontation would spiral into a wider regional conflict. His remarks come even as former US President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the possibility of a diplomatic deal.

Iran’s Foreign Minister said Tehran no longer trusts the United States as a negotiating partner, despite mediation efforts by several Middle Eastern countries aimed at rebuilding dialogue between the two longtime adversaries.

Addressing the escalating standoff, Ayatollah Khamenei accused the United States of hostile intentions toward Iran. “The United States wants to devour Iran; the Iranian nation and the Islamic Republic prevent this,” he said, asserting that Iran would not be intimidated by American military presence, including warships and aircraft in the region.

At the same time, the Iranian leader stressed that Tehran is not looking to start a conflict. “We are not the initiators of war and do not seek to oppress anyone,” Khamenei said. However, he warned that any attack on Iran would be met with a forceful response. “Anyone who seeks to attack or cause harm will face a decisive blow from the Iranian nation,” he added.

The sharp rhetoric underscores growing uncertainty in the region, as diplomatic efforts continue alongside mounting military and political pressure.