Iran warns of direct military response if US or allies escalate
Iran has threatened a direct military response to any new escalation by the US or its allies, saying Washington's partners are parties to the conflict.
Key Takeaways
AIIran warned on Sunday that any new military escalation by the United States or its allies would be met with a direct response targeting American bases and interests in the region.
The Iranian military command told state media it considers Washington's allies to be parties to any potential conflict.
Iran also claimed to have information indicating that the US and its allies are preparing a major attack, though it did not provide further details.
Meanwhile, the US State Department on Saturday issued a security alert for American citizens in the Middle East, warning of a possible sudden escalation that could lead to flight cancellations and airspace closures.
In a related development, the Iran-aligned Houthis announced attacks on Riyadh and a major oil facility in Yanbu on the Red Sea.
A Reuters video showed thick smoke rising near King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh after a nighttime explosion, while the Saudi-led coalition said it had foiled other attacks. There was no official comment from Saudi Arabia.
The latest Houthi escalation has strengthened their control over the Bab al-Mandab Strait, giving them greater leverage over shipping between the Red Sea and Asia and threatening to impose a blockade on this vital passage.
These developments come as the US blockade of Iranian ports continues, worsening Iran's economic crises and increasing tensions in global energy markets.
Iran reiterated that it will not reopen the Strait of Hormuz until the US fulfills its commitments, while Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the country would continue to combine military strength and diplomacy to achieve its goals.