Iran Threatens, 'The Missiles Are Ready to Launch; It Will Be Hell'

The threat map in the Middle East has reached an unprecedented boiling point in recent hours. Following forceful statements by U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened to launch a military attack against targets in Iran, officials in Tehran responded on Wednesday evening with an especially militant, sharp and menacing line, making clear that their operational systems are on the highest alert. The Iranian officials sent a direct message to the White House and to the American military forces deployed in the region, using blunt language that left no room for doubt. "Waiting for your stupidity," Iran said, stressing that it is not deterred by the threats coming from Washington, and that its firing systems are ready for a quick and painful response in the immediate term. "The missiles are ready to launch, and we are waiting for your stupidity," the officials in Tehran said in direct response to the American administration's threats. Iran added a concrete warning about the consequences of striking it, claiming, "The attack in the coming hours will be bitter."

A direct threat to the U.S. Navy

Much of the Iranian message was directed specifically at U.S. Navy forces operating in the waters of the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea, which are considered major potential targets in the event of a broader regional flare-up. "We advise the American sailors to contact their families now and apologize," the Iranian officials concluded their threatening statement, adding the militant line: "Welcome to hell!" International security officials are closely monitoring the exchange of threats, and concern in the West is growing over the possibility of a rapid slide into direct military confrontation.