Iran has warned the United States of a severe military response if Washington launches further attacks, following President Donald Trump’s threat to “annihilate” the Islamic Republic.Read original
The warning came after Trump addressed the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday and said he faced a choice between reaching a deal with Iran or destroying the country if an agreement could not be reached.
Trump said he could allow Iran to rebuild through a negotiated settlement or “annihilate the Islamic Republic” and “drive them into hell.”
The US president also defended his administration’s military campaign against Iran and reiterated that Washington would not accept Tehran developing nuclear weapons.
Iran Issues Strong Warning
Iran’s Armed Forces responded by warning that any further aggression would be met with what it described as even more severe and unpredictable attacks.
In a statement carried by Iranian state media, Iran’s military leadership said its forces were prepared to deliver “crushing” blows against aggressors.
The statement also accused Trump of using the UN platform to justify US military action against Iran, while insisting that his threats would not change Tehran’s calculations.
Iran’s military has previously issued similar warnings as the conflict between Washington and Tehran has escalated.
Trump Signals Possible Deal
Despite the harsh rhetoric, Trump also indicated that diplomatic efforts between the two countries were continuing.
The US president said American and Iranian representatives had held what he described as a “very good meeting” on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.
Trump said another meeting could take place soon and maintained that reaching an agreement would be in Iran’s interest.
The diplomatic contacts suggest that Washington and Tehran are simultaneously maintaining negotiations while publicly exchanging threats.
According to reporting on the talks, issues including sanctions, the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s nuclear programme remain central to discussions.
Tensions Continue
The latest exchange has further increased concerns over the possibility of renewed military action in the Middle East.
Trump has linked an end to the conflict with lower oil prices, while Iran has continued to reject what it considers unacceptable demands from Washington.
For now, both sides have continued to use strong language publicly while leaving the door open to further negotiations.
The outcome of the diplomatic efforts could determine whether the confrontation moves toward a negotiated settlement or another escalation in the conflict.
