In the face of potential renewed hostilities, Iran has issued a stark warning to the United States, suggesting that any future conflict could extend beyond previous engagements. Iranian army spokesperson Mohammad Akraminia emphasized that Tehran would decide its response to any military aggression, indicating that the duration and intensity of any conflict would not be dictated by Washington.
The Iranian Defence Minister, Mehrdad Akhlaghi, reinforced this stance, stating that any attack on Iran would be met with a proportionate and decisive response. Akhlaghi underscored that Iran would retain control over the scale, timing, and consequences of its defensive actions, ensuring that adversaries do not set the terms.
Adding to the narrative, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has cautioned that a potential conflict with the United States might not be confined to a specific geographical area, implying that the repercussions could ripple across a broader region.
Despite these warnings, diplomatic efforts continue as Iranian negotiators engage in discussions with Qatari mediators in Doha. These talks, ongoing for a third consecutive day, aim to make headway toward a resolution to end the US-Israeli conflict against Iran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi conveyed that the dialogue is focused on continuing consultations with Qatar and mentioned that Tehran remains open to both diplomatic and defensive measures.
Araghchi confirmed that negotiations on a proposed two-day initiative are in progress, though a final agreement has yet to be reached. Concerns persist over the possibility of renewed hostilities following the November 3 US midterm elections. While US President Donald Trump has stated that no new attacks on Iran will occur before the vote, he has not dismissed the potential for military action thereafter, though he noted that negotiations with Tehran have been productive thus far.
