Iran threatens to attack US without 'geographic restrictions'
What's the story
Iran has issued a fresh warning to the United States, saying it would strike American targets without "geographic restrictions" if attacked. The warning comes after US President Donald Trump threatened further action against Iran. Iranian Army spokesperson Mohammad Akraminia said the country's forces are now stronger and more committed than when the conflict with the US and Israel began in February.
Increased readiness
Response to US attack would be immediate, effective: Akraminia
Akraminia said the Iranian forces are on higher alert and have more motivation and self-confidence now.
He added that any response to a US attack would be immediate, effective, and without geographical limitations under Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei's orders.
The spokesperson also mentioned that the Strait of Hormuz would only be reopened if Washington agrees to Iran's seven conditions.
Escalating tensions
Trump threatens military action against Iran
Trump has threatened to launch another operation against Iran, saying the US is "locked and loaded" for more military action.
"I would rather not destroy the rest of the country, if possible, but maybe I'll have to," he said.
Trump's remarks came after he appeared to partially agree with Vice President JD Vance, who laid much of the blame for the Republicans' midterm setback on the Iran war and its economic impact on Americans.
Military action
US military strikes Iranian air defense system
The US military has carried out limited strikes on Iran, targeting an Iranian air defense system.
These were the first strikes since Trump's Republican Party lost control of both the House and Senate in the midterm elections.
Iranian state media reported explosions in Qeshm Island's Suza area, a strategic oil shipment route.
Ongoing negotiations
Diplomatic efforts underway to reach nuclear deal
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are underway to broker a deal between the US and Iran. Vice President Vance has been involved in indirect talks aimed at reaching a new ceasefire and resuming nuclear negotiations.
Iran is reportedly open to discussing its nuclear program, a major sticking point in ceasefire talks.
A diplomat told Bloomberg that Iran was considering proposals on its nuclear activities from Qatar, which is mediating between both parties.