Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated that an attack by the United States would escalate into a regional conflict, according to state media. The US had increased naval presence in the Middle East following President Donald Trump’s repeated threats against Iran if it did not comply with nuclear deal terms or curb protests.
“Trump regularly states he brought ships here,” Khamenei said. “The Iranian nation shall not be scared by these things; the people will not be stirred by these threats.” Tehran maintained a diplomatic stance, suggesting fair negotiations that do not limit its defensive capabilities. Currently, the US Navy has six destroyers, one aircraft carrier, and three littoral combat ships in the region.
Protests triggered by economic hardships had largely subsided after brutal government crackdowns, but they remained politically significant to Iran’s Islamic Republic since 1979. Official death tolls stood at 3,117, while HRANA estimated more than 6,700 fatalities.
Khamenei characterized the protests as a “coup,” asserting that their aim was to challenge governing centers in the country. Meanwhile, Iran’s top security official hinted at progress toward negotiations with the US, even as its army chief warned against potential military strikes by Washington.
US deployment of the naval battle group off Iranian shores fueled fears of confrontation, given Iran’s threat to retaliate with missile strikes on American bases and allies, including Israel. Despite these threats, Trump believed a deal over nuclear and missile programs would be preferable for Iran compared to military action, which Tehran stated it was ready to discuss if its defense capabilities were not excluded from negotiations.