The United States has warned Iran of severe consequences if it were to launch a major attack against Israel, cautioning that such an action could destabilize Iran’s newly elected government and inflict significant damage on its economy.
The warning was communicated through both direct channels and intermediaries, according to a U.S. official who spoke on the condition of anonymity.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed on Tuesday that the U.S. has delivered this message directly to Tehran, though details of the communication remain undisclosed.
The U.S. has bolstered its military presence in the region, deploying F-22 fighters and additional destroyers capable of intercepting ballistic missiles. A U.S. aircraft carrier remains stationed in the Gulf of Oman, with fighter squadrons positioned at nearby bases.
U.S. officials remain uncertain about the scope and timing of any potential Iranian response, particularly in light of past incidents, such as Iran’s April 13 missile and drone attack on Israel. There are also concerns about whether Hezbollah, Iran’s ally in Lebanon, might coordinate an offensive to coincide with any Iranian action.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, recently sworn into office, is reportedly open to renewing dialogue with Western nations. However, Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, continues to hold significant influence over the country’s fundamental policies, making the situation highly volatile.
