Iran Prepares Escalated Response to Potential US Attack

Iran is reportedly preparing a significant escalation in response to any new American military strike, moving beyond symbolic retaliation to a comprehensive regional and global response. According to three Iranian officials and a source familiar with security discussions, Tehran plans to target American interests worldwide and attack countries that support Washington's military activities. Directives have been issued to Iranian proxies in Lebanon, Yemen, and Iraq to prepare for a coordinated strike extending from the Strait of Hormuz.

This heightened threat comes amid stalled diplomatic efforts. Iran recently submitted a proposal through Qatari mediators for a seven-day ceasefire and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for lifting sanctions on its oil exports and releasing $12 billion in frozen assets. However, the US, under President Trump, has rejected this, demanding that any agreement include the dismantling of Iran's nuclear program, a condition Tehran refuses to accept.

Iranian leadership has been engaged in intensive discussions regarding the scope and timing of a military response since President Rouhani's return from the UN General Assembly. Senior officials confirmed that operational orders have been sent to proxies in Lebanon, Yemen, and Iraq, instructing them to prepare for a multi-front, coordinated regional assault. This strategy aims to re-establish deterrence, even as Tehran remains uncertain about the nature of a potential US attack, whether a full-scale campaign or targeted strikes on nuclear facilities.

Despite the military posturing, Iran is attempting to keep diplomatic channels open due to severe economic distress caused by US sanctions, particularly the naval blockade impacting oil exports. However, the continuation of the blockade is seen as potentially crippling the regime, making military escalation a realistic option. Experts suggest that Tehran is determined not to respond in a measured way, aiming to significantly broaden the range of targets.

Internally, the Iranian regime faces growing concerns about domestic unrest and the potential resurgence of large-scale protests, similar to those that erupted earlier this year following economic collapse. A former reformist official noted that dealing with civil unrest during an American bombing campaign could directly threaten the survival of the religious establishment. In anticipation of the anniversary of recent unrest, the regime has intensified its crackdown, with reports of mass arrests, torture, and an increase in executions aimed at preventing popular uprisings.