Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has warned that any military action by the United States would lead to a wider regional conflict, as tensions continue to rise amid increased American military activity in the Middle East.
Speaking through Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency, Khamenei said the country would respond strongly if attacked, adding that any confrontation would not remain limited in scope. His comments came as the United States expanded its military presence in nearby waters.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump said Iran was engaged in “serious discussions” and expressed hope that talks could result in an acceptable outcome. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also signaled cautious optimism, telling CNN that progress was possible in negotiations related to Iran’s nuclear program.
Despite these statements, Araghchi said trust between Tehran and Washington remains low. He noted that while direct confidence has been damaged, indirect communication through regional intermediaries has helped keep talks moving forward. Iran’s senior security official Ali Larijani also indicated that a framework for negotiations was developing.
The United States has recently deployed additional military assets to the region, including the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, which is now operating in the Arabian Sea. Khamenei dismissed the move, saying Iran would not be intimidated by displays of military force.
Iran had been expected to conduct naval exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route for oil exports. However, Iranian officials later said no such drills were planned. The narrow waterway is a vital passage for global energy supplies, and Iran has previously warned it could restrict access if attacked.
US officials have urged Iran to avoid any actions that could escalate tensions, while Iranian leaders have pushed back, stating that their armed forces operate within their own territory and waters.
Meanwhile, recent explosions in Iran have added to domestic concerns. Authorities said a blast in the southern port city of Bandar Abbas, which killed one person and injured several others, was caused by a gas leak. A separate explosion in the southwestern city of Ahvaz also resulted in fatalities, with officials again citing a gas-related incident. Iranian media denied reports suggesting any military involvement in the incidents.
Earlier this week, President Trump said Iran must meet two conditions to avoid US military action: halting its nuclear program and ending the use of force against protesters. Human rights groups have reported a high death toll since protests began late last year, though Iranian officials dispute the figures.
In his latest remarks, Khamenei accused protest groups of attacking public institutions and security forces, saying the unrest had been contained.