Iran Warns of Strong Response After Trump Threatens Harsher Military Action

Iran’s Foreign Minister Syed Abbas Araghchi has warned that Tehran would respond “immediately and powerfully” to any US attack, after President Donald Trump threatened military action “far worse” than last year’s strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities.

Araghchi said Iran had learned “valuable lessons” from last year’s 12-day conflict and stressed that the country’s armed forces were on high alert.

“Our brave Armed Forces are prepared — with their fingers on the trigger — to immediately and powerfully respond to any aggression against our beloved land, air and sea,” he said.

At the same time, Araghchi said Iran remained open to a “fair and equitable” nuclear agreement, provided it was based on equal footing and respected Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear technology. He also denied that Iran possesses nuclear weapons.

The remarks come as Trump is reportedly considering military options against Iran, including targeted strikes on security forces and senior leaders, according to Reuters, citing multiple sources.

Two US officials familiar with the matter said Trump aims to create “conditions for regime change” by encouraging public protests. The US president has previously warned Iran against suppressing demonstrators amid nationwide unrest.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said there was no immediate plan to attack Iran, but described the American military presence in the region as “wise and prudent.”

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said US naval forces in the region, led by the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, were “ready, willing, and able” to act if necessary.

“Hopefully Iran will quickly come to the table and negotiate a fair and equitable deal — no nuclear weapons — one that is good for all parties,” Trump wrote, adding that “time is running out.”

Iran responded by reiterating its willingness for dialogue based on mutual respect, while warning it would defend itself “like never before” if provoked.

Situation Inside Iran

Human rights groups report severe casualties and arrests following nationwide protests.

• At least 6,221 people have been killed, including protesters, minors, security personnel and bystanders, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).

• More than 42,000 people have been arrested, with thousands of deaths still under investigation, AFP reported.

• HRANA has warned that security forces are searching hospitals to identify injured protesters.

• Internet connectivity has been restored to about 95 percent after a nearly three-week blackout, according to NetBlocks.