Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that an attack by the U. S. on Iran would escalate into a regional conflict. This statement follows increased U. S. naval presence in the Middle East amid tensions over a nuclear deal and Iranian actions against protesters. Khamenei asserted that Iran does not seek to provoke war but will respond strongly to any aggression.
Tehran is open to “fair” negotiations that respect its defensive capabilities. The U. S. Navy has a significant presence in the region with six destroyers, one aircraft carrier, and three littoral combat ships. Protests in Iran, which began due to economic issues and evolved into a political challenge, have lessened after government crackdowns. Official figures indicate over 3,100 deaths related to the unrest, while a human rights group reported more than 6,700. Khamenei described the protests as an attempted coup aimed at the government.
With information from Reuters
