The Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has instructed the country's army to be put on high combat readiness. According to Reuters, citing diplomatic sources, this decision was made following reports of a potential US military operation.
Against the backdrop of tensions with the US
It has been reported that Iran has warned regional countries such as Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Turkey, and Bahrain not to allow the US to strike from their territories. Tehran has stated that if these countries provide their land for US military operations, it could be considered an "act of hostility," and Iran may respond militarily.
A senior Iranian official emphasized that such a situation could lead to "serious consequences." This rhetoric is further escalating tensions between Iran and the US.
Trump's "final warning"
US President Donald Trump sent a personal letter to Ali Khamenei at the beginning of March, urging Iran to engage in negotiations regarding the nuclear agreement and giving a two-month deadline for this. The content of the letter was also communicated to Washington's key allies, such as Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
In response, Ali Khamenei called Trump's offer a "deception," while Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected direct negotiations with the US on March 30. Tehran has emphasized that discussions regarding the nuclear program can only take place through third-party mediation.
Missiles on standby
In this context, Iran has put its missiles and defense systems on combat readiness. According to sources, underground missile launch facilities spread across the country have been brought to a high level of preparedness. These installations are built to withstand air attacks and are capable of delivering a prompt retaliatory strike if military actions occur.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated in his remarks that the likelihood of a US strike from outside is low. "It is unlikely that evil will be carried out from outside. However, if it happens, they will undoubtedly receive a severe response," he said.
The recent diplomatic and military tensions between the US and Iran are creating a new risk of instability in the Middle East. It is worth noting that both sides have so far refrained from direct confrontation, but the level of rhetoric and military preparedness is increasing. While the doors for negotiations remain indirectly open, the situation could escalate rapidly.
