Iran's military central command has issued a warning to the United States and its allies against launching another major attack, stating that it has information that a new offensive may be in preparation. The warning was broadcast on state media on Sunday, and it emphasized that any fresh attack would lead to continued retaliation against US bases and interests in the region.
The military also warned that countries supporting the United States in any new attack would be treated as parties to the conflict. However, Iran did not provide details about the information it claimed pointed to a possible US attack. This development comes as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate, with the US-Iran war now in its seventh month.
The US State Department had issued a security alert on Saturday, warning that there could be an unexpected escalation in the Middle East. It advised Americans in the region to remain alert and prepare for possible flight cancellations and airspace closures. The alert also referred to Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia, including threats to civilian airports.
On Saturday, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group claimed to have carried out attacks in Saudi Arabia, including strikes on the capital, Riyadh, and a major oil facility in Yanbu, a Red Sea port. Reuters video showed a large column of black smoke rising near Riyadh's main international airport after explosions were heard in the Saudi capital overnight. However, Saudi Arabia did not comment on the reported attack or the Houthi claims.
The latest Houthi advances have created a difficult situation for Saudi Arabia, which must decide whether to continue airstrikes against the group to prevent it from taking more territory or reduce its military operations to avoid further attacks on key infrastructure. The Houthi advances along Yemen's coast have also brought the group closer to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a strategic waterway that is an important route for ships traveling between the Red Sea and Asia.
The conflict has severely affected energy exports from the Gulf region and added pressure on global oil prices. Iran has also blocked much of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, another major global shipping route. At the same time, a US blockade of Iranian ports has limited Iran's ability to sell its oil, worsening economic problems in the country.
Despite the heavy damage caused by the war, there is little sign that the two sides are close to returning to the temporary ceasefire reached in June. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said the country would have to continue both fighting and negotiating in order to resist its opponents and use diplomacy to strengthen its position.
Key points
- Iran warns US of retaliation against bases and interests if new attack is launched
- US issues security alert, advising Americans to remain alert and prepare for possible flight cancellations
- Houthi group claims to have carried out attacks in Saudi Arabia, including strikes on Riyadh and a major oil facility
