Iran Demands Strong Response to US Attacks
Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian made it clear on Sunday that the United States must face consequences following recent strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The declaration came during a phone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, underscoring Tehran’s firm stance on retaliation.
"The Americans must receive a response to their aggression," Pezeshkian stated, signaling that the simmering tensions could escalate further.
Warnings from Iran's Leadership
Adding weight to these warnings, a senior advisor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Ali Akbar Velayati, declared that "the game isn’t over." He went even further by suggesting that U.S. military bases in the region could now be considered legitimate targets for Iranian forces.
Velayati emphasized, "Any country in the region or elsewhere that is used by American forces to strike Iran will be considered a legitimate target for our armed forces."
He also condemned the US presence in the Middle East following the attacks, labeling it as unwelcome and no longer justified, while warning of severe repercussions for the United States.
Iran Pledges to Defend Itself by All Means
Iranian officials reiterated their readiness to protect the nation using all necessary measures. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei condemned the strike as an “unconscionable act of aggression” by a nuclear-armed state against a non-nuclear weapon country.
He affirmed Iran’s unwavering commitment to its national sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity amid these ongoing threats.
US Signals Willingness to Engage, Avoid War
In the wake of the attacks, the U.S. administration hinted at openness to renewed diplomatic talks, attempting to deescalate mounting tensions. Top officials conveyed that the strikes were not intended to provoke a full-scale conflict or regime change, but rather to send a strategic message.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized, "America does not seek war with Iran." Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance suggested the recent actions might prompt Iran to return to the negotiation table.
Uncertain Road Ahead
With heightened rhetoric from both sides, the situation remains volatile. Iran’s assertive response and warnings to surrounding nations against hosting American military facilities could reshape regional dynamics, while the US maintains cautious optimism about controlling the fallout.
As global observers watch closely, the potential for escalation or diplomacy hinges on forthcoming moves from these key players.
