Iran's New Defense Minister Threatens Trump, Vows Retaliation

Iran's new defense minister, identified as a senior figure in the country's missile industry, has issued a stark warning to the United States and Israel, vowing retaliation in the event of further attacks. The minister, Mehrdad Akhlaghi, stated that he has been on a "hit list" for 35 years, a situation he claims is not new to him. His appointment follows the assassination of his predecessor, Aziz Nasirzadeh, adding a layer of significance to his threats.

Akhlaghi, 68, directly addressed U.S. President Donald Trump, warning that any further military confrontation would result in American casualties. "If he drops one bomb, he should check how many of his forces he will need to take out of the region lying down," Akhlaghi stated, implying that Trump would be responsible for evacuating dead soldiers. He also claimed that Iran has prepared for scenarios involving the U.S. using its most powerful conventional bomb, the "mother of all bombs," suggesting this preparedness has deterred Washington from such actions.

The new minister asserted that any further aggression by the U.S. and Israel would provoke a surprising and extensive response from Iran and its allies. He emphasized that Tehran would not be deterred by the prospect of further conflict and that the U.S. and its partners would bear responsibility for the regional and international consequences.

Akhlaghi, who previously headed Iran's Aerospace Industries Organization and is under international sanctions for his involvement in the missile program, also outlined his plans to bolster Iran's military industry. His objectives include expanding defense production, advancing research and development, fostering cooperation with private companies, and adapting the Defense Ministry to current security threats. He also pledged to continue strengthening what Tehran calls the "axis of resistance."