Iran Warns of Powerful Response to US if War Begins

Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Akbar Velayati stated that former US President Donald Trump "greatly underestimated Iran." Velayati asserted that the US decision to initiate war was made without precise calculations and was influenced by Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He claimed Netanyahu "dragged Trump into a swamp," leading to disagreements between them.

Velayati suggested that it would be advantageous for Washington to accept Tehran's terms and withdraw from the conflict, as further US involvement would only worsen the country's position. He warned that in the event of a new war, Iran would deliver more powerful and numerous strikes. Potential targets mentioned included American ships in the Indian Ocean.

According to Velayati, Tehran has increased the speed of its hypersonic missiles from Mach 6 to Mach 10 and has improved its electronic warfare and air defense systems. He also threatened American companies and vessels from countries that assist in economic pressure against Iran in the Strait of Hormuz.

Despite the threats, Velayati called for regional cooperation among Persian Gulf states and expressed Tehran's readiness to facilitate rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni authorities.