The Islamic Republic of Iran has issued a firm warning to the United States, stating that any military attack or intervention will be met with a decisive and painful retaliation, targeting U.S. interests and allies in the region.
This statement comes amid escalating tensions fueled by ongoing anti-government protests in Iran and threats from U.S. President Donald Trump to intervene militarily. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized that the nation's armed forces are fully prepared to defend its sovereignty against any external threats.
"Our response will be more decisive and more painful than before if we become the target of a U.S.–Zionist attack," stated Reza Talaei-Nik, spokesman for Iran's defense ministry.
Senior officials have communicated to regional neighbors, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Turkey, and Iraq, that U.S. bases hosted in their territories would not be spared in the event of an American strike. Iran's parliament speaker further warned that both Israel and U.S. military and shipping centers would become legitimate targets if the U.S. attacks.
The warnings follow U.S. actions, including the deployment of an aircraft carrier group and warships to the Persian Gulf, described by President Trump as an "armada."
The U.S. has also withdrawn some personnel from Middle Eastern bases as a precautionary measure amid heightened tensions. Iranian authorities have accused the U.S. and Israel of fomenting the domestic unrest, with President Masoud Pezeshkian claiming that foreign powers have trained individuals and terrorists to incite violence.
The protests, which began in late December 2025 over economic hardships and inflation, have evolved into widespread calls to end clerical rule. Iranian security forces have responded firmly to maintain order, with reports from rights groups indicating significant casualties.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has dismissed the demonstrators as "vandals" seeking to please foreign adversaries. The government has declared three days of national mourning for those killed in what it describes as a battle against U.S. and Israeli interference.
Iran's allies, including Hezbollah and Iraqi militias, have echoed these threats, vowing to confront any U.S. aggression with full force.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassim declared, "When Trump threatens Imam Khamenei, he is threatening tens of millions who follow this leader... It is our duty to confront this threat with all necessary measures and preparedness." Kataib Hezbollah warned of "martyrdom operations" and severe consequences for U.S. forces in the region.
The Islamic Republic urges the international community to reject U.S. provocations and respect Iran's sovereignty. Any act of aggression will only lead to a broader regional conflict, with Iran prepared to defend itself by all means necessary.