TEHRAN: Iran has issued a stern warning that its military is poised for immediate retaliation against any US aggression, following threats from President Donald Trump. The escalating crisis comes as a major US naval fleet, reportedly larger than the recent force deployed near Venezuela, steams toward the region.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that while Iran has always welcomed a transparent nuclear deal, its forces are fully prepared to respond. “The Iranian forces have their fingers on the trigger to respond to any aggression,” he said, linking the defensive posture to a desire for a deal ensuring Iran’s rights without nuclear weapons.
The warning was echoed by Ali Shamkhani, a top advisor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. He declared that any US military action would result in immediate and “exemplary” retaliation, targeting the US, Israel, and their supporters. Shamkhani dismissed talk of a limited US strike as a “deception,” signaling a broad and severe response.
The threats follow President Trump’s announcement of a powerful fleet, led by the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln, moving toward Iran. Trump stated the fleet was “capable of completing its mission quickly with force, violence, if necessary,” while also expressing hope that Iran would return to negotiate a “fair and equal” agreement without nuclear weapons.
The exchange marks a dangerous surge in tensions, with Iran positioning itself for all-out conflict should diplomacy fail.
