Khamenei Threatens US: 'Even Bigger Blow' Coming?! Trump Responds!
Tensions are escalating between the United States and Iran as Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a stark warning, threatening a potentially devastating blow against the U.S. and Israel. Khamenei's comments, translated by Reuters, referred to Israel as "its dog on a leash, the Zionist regime," further inflaming the already strained relationship.
"The fact that our nation is ready to face the power of the United States and its dog on a leash, the Zionist regime, is very praiseworthy," Khamenei stated, as reported by state TV. He also alluded to last month's attack on the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar as merely a prelude to future actions, suggesting a more significant strike is imminent.
President Trump, responding to the threats, stated he is "in no rush to talk" to Iran, despite reports suggesting Iran desires negotiations. The U.S. has assessed that Iran's nuclear program has suffered setbacks due to recent strikes, particularly the one on the Fordow atomic site in June. These strikes followed a series of Israeli operations targeting Tehran's nuclear and military infrastructure.
However, despite these setbacks, a significant portion of Iran's missile capabilities remains intact. The extent of the damage inflicted on Iran's missile and drone program by Israeli strikes remains unclear, but security experts caution that these programs still pose a "significant" threat. Israel estimates that Iran likely retains approximately 1,500 medium-range ballistic missiles and 50% of its launching capabilities, even after the strikes.
The situation remains volatile, with Iran vowing retaliation if the UN Security Council imposes snapback sanctions on the anniversary of the nuclear deal. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging de-escalation and diplomatic solutions to prevent further conflict.