June 23, 2025 | 3:45 PM GMT
TEHRAN—Iran’s highest-ranking military commander declared today that Tehran reserves the right to retaliate against the United States for recent airstrikes targeting Iranian-backed forces, igniting fears of a dangerous new escalation in the volatile Middle East.
Key Developments:
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General’s Warning: Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, stated in a televised address:
"The U.S. aggression on our forces and interests will not go unanswered. The Islamic Republic’s military is entitled—and prepared—to deliver a decisive response at a time and place of our choosing."
- Trigger for Threats: Bagheri’s remarks follow U.S. airstrikes last week against Iranian-affiliated militia positions in eastern Syria and Iraq. The Pentagon confirmed the operations were retaliation for drone attacks on U.S. bases in Jordan, which injured several American personnel.
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Regional Flashpoints:
- Israel Connection: While Bagheri focused on the U.S., analysts warn any Iranian retaliation could involve proxy attacks on Israeli targets. Israel remains on high alert amid cross-border skirmishes with Hezbollah in Lebanon.
- Nuclear Tensions: The threats coincide with stalled talks to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. UN inspectors reported yesterday that Iran continues enriching uranium near weapons-grade levels.
Why This Matters:
- Proxy War Risks: Iran’s network of allied militias (including Hezbollah and Houthi rebels) could strike U.S. or Israeli assets across Iraq, Syria, Yemen, or the Red Sea, threatening global oil routes.
- U.S. Posture: The White House reiterated it will "defend its forces," deploying additional warships to the Eastern Mediterranean.
- Diplomatic Gridlock: Russia and China condemned the U.S. strikes, while European powers urged "maximum restraint."
Global Reactions:
- Israel: Defense Minister Yoav Gallant vowed, "We will respond to any aggression from Iranian soil with full force."
- United States: National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan called Iran’s rhetoric "irresponsible" but left the door open to dialogue.
- Oil Markets: Brent crude surged 4% on supply disruption fears.
What’s Next?
Security analysts warn Iran may opt for asymmetric retaliation—cyberattacks, covert strikes, or proxy assaults—to avoid direct confrontation. All eyes turn to the Gulf, where U.S. and Iranian warships operate in close proximity.
Live Updates:
- 14:30 GMT: Iran’s Revolutionary Guards begin naval drills in the Strait of Hormuz.
- 15:00 GMT: U.S. CENTCOM commander arrives in Israel for emergency talks.
Background:
This crisis marks the most severe U.S.-Iran standoff since 2020, when a U.S. drone strike killed top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani. With elections looming in both nations, neither side appears willing to back down.