Iran warns US of heavy retaliation
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi issued an ultimatum as the two nations prepare for renewed conflict after eight months of fighting.
By Rafael Bailey ·
Abbas Araghchi, the foreign minister of Iran, warned on Sunday that Tehran would "rain down hell" if the United States resumes attacks. He presented this threat as an ultimatum to end the eight-month war between the two countries. Araghchi stated that his administration has a two-day proposal ready for Washington.
The Iranian official posted his message on X, saying, "Our 2-day proposal stands: meet the requirements, including end to war on all fronts, and you will see results." He added that if the US chooses war instead, Iranian warriors would deliver that heavy punishment. The Foreign Ministry also quoted Araghchi earlier in the day, noting that Iran would "not go easy on American targets" in the region.
President Donald Trump responded to the threats by calling renewed strikes "highly unlikely" if negotiations proceed. He told CNN that the decision depends on whether Iran signs a "very strong agreement." Trump confirmed that three US aircraft carriers are currently in the region, describing them as "fully locked and loaded." He also claimed that US forces have 38 bridges in Iran targeted and could destroy them in one hour.
Tensions rose further after state media reported that an oil tanker caught fire early Sunday morning. The vessel hit a naval mine east of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s navy said the ship had its identification systems off and was traveling in a no-go zone. An adviser to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ Aerospace Force commander, Brigadier-General Ali Belali, warned that weapons are secured for years to come.
Belali told followers on Telegram that the armed forces are ready and that Iran’s response would be "devastating and severe" if the enemy makes a mistake. He noted that capabilities were upgraded during the post-Ramadan War period. This exchange follows US midterm elections where Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress, soundly defeating Trump’s Republican Party.
Araghchi suggested that these elections delayed negotiations. He said it will take time for the political atmosphere to settle down and for mediators to resume their visits. The foreign minister concluded that both sides simply have to wait.
