Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that any military action by the United States would be met with severe retaliation, saying U.S. forces could be “struck so hard that it cannot get up again,” according to remarks reported by Iranian state media.
The comments came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran as diplomacy over Iran’s nuclear program remains uncertain and regional security risks continue to rise.
Iranian officials have repeatedly framed their position as defensive, warning that any attack on Iranian territory or assets would trigger a response against U.S. forces and interests in the region.
U.S. officials have said their military posture in the Middle East is aimed at deterrence and protecting personnel and partners, while pressing Iran to curb nuclear activities and support for armed groups across the region. Washington has also emphasized that it does not seek a wider conflict.
The exchange of warnings underscores the fragile security environment in the Gulf and surrounding areas, where U.S. troops, naval assets, and allied forces operate alongside ongoing regional conflicts.
Diplomatic channels remain active, but officials on both sides have signaled that miscalculation could rapidly escalate tensions.
