Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated sharply as American forces remain fully prepared to strike if ordered by President Donald Trump, while Tehran has warned of an immediate and decisive response that could target US bases in the region.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that the Pentagon is ready to carry out any action demanded by the President, citing the ongoing deployment of a massive naval armada, including aircraft carriers and guided-missile destroyers, to the Gulf. Trump described the fleet as “massive and powerful” but left the door open for diplomacy, urging Iran to abandon nuclear ambitions and halt the suppression of domestic protests.
In response, Iran’s top military officials said any US attack would receive a forceful countermeasure, not a limited or proportionate response. Brigadier General Mohammad Akraminia highlighted the vulnerability of US aircraft carriers and bases in the Gulf, warning that Tehran is prepared to strike swiftly and decisively if provoked.
Experts have cautioned that while Iran is likely to opt for asymmetric retaliation, including cyberattacks, proxy strikes, and pressure on shipping lanes such as the Strait of Hormuz, any miscalculation could rapidly escalate into a wider conflict. The Gulf region, which handles nearly a third of the world’s oil shipments, remains highly sensitive to military developments.
Also read: US forces ready to strike Iran: Pete Hegseth
Amid the rising tensions, the European Union has designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation, signaling mounting international pressure. Meanwhile, Turkey has offered to mediate dialogue between Washington and Tehran to prevent a military confrontation.
The US military presence and Tehran’s warnings come against the backdrop of Iran’s denied nuclear programme ambitions, with both sides asserting readiness to act decisively. Analysts warn that while neither wants an all-out war, the risk of miscalculation is high, making the situation in the Middle East increasingly precarious.
Global markets have already reacted, with oil prices climbing due to fears of potential disruption to energy supplies. Diplomacy and deterrence are now running in parallel, as the world watches whether brinkmanship will lead to negotiation or spiral into open conflict.
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