Tehran, Iran – Tensions between Washington and Tehran have escalated to unprecedented levels. Both sides have exchanged threatening messages and warnings against any imminent military confrontation. While US President Donald Trump has brandished the threat of a “massive fleet” heading to the region, Iran has warned that thousands of American troops are now within direct range of attack.
Qalibaf: Trump starts wars but doesn’t end them.
In remarks described as blunt, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf asserted on Thursday that while President Donald Trump may have the authority to initiate a war, he is “unable to control its course or its outcome.” Ghalibaf emphasized that thousands of American troops in the region would be within range of Iranian fire and in direct danger should any confrontation erupt. He clarified that Tehran is not closing the door to diplomacy and stressed his country’s readiness to negotiate, provided the process is “sincere and genuine.” He warned of the consequences of escalation, affirming that Iran would respond decisively to any attack targeting its territory or interests.
Ghalibaf stated, “Trump may start a war, but he has no control over how it ends.”
American reaction
In response, Washington was quick to express its concern. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the United States takes Iranian threats to strike US forces in the region very seriously, describing them as a “real threat” that requires vigilance. This escalation in rhetoric comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, with both sides exchanging messages of deterrence, while questions remain about the possibility of returning to the negotiating table in this charged atmosphere.
