Iran has “many surprises” in store for any enemy that attacks it, Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh said, warning that the country would respond with full force to any military aggression.
The brigadier general made the remarks at a security meeting after US President Donald Trump intensified his rhetoric and threatened possible military intervention in Iran amid weeks of deadly unrest.
“If these threats are turned into action, we will defend the country with full force and until the last drop of blood, and our defence would be painful to them,” Nasirzadeh was quoted as saying by Press TV.
His comments come as tensions between Tehran and Washington continue to rise. US officials have said a military strike on Iran is “more likely than not,” even as the White House maintains that diplomacy remains an option. Trump recently said he had cancelled talks with Iranian officials and publicly expressed support for protesters, posting messages backing demonstrations against the Iranian leadership.
Iran is currently grappling with widespread, leaderless protests triggered by a deepening economic crisis, high inflation and the sharp fall of the rial. The unrest has posed one of the biggest challenges to the Islamic Republic in recent years.
Regional anxiety has also grown over the prospect of conflict. Gulf nations led by Saudi Arabia have reportedly urged the US to hold off on any military action against Iran, warning that escalation could destabilise the region and disrupt global oil markets, particularly shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran’s leadership and military have been under strain following recent clashes with Israel and US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, which reportedly damaged air defences and killed senior commanders. Tehran’s warning signals its intent to project strength as pressure mounts both at home and abroad.
