Iran threatens hell if US resumes strikes

Iran’s foreign minister issued a stark warning on Sunday that Tehran will "rain down hell" if the United States resumes military operations. The threat comes as the two nations have been locked in an eight-month war.

Abbas Araghchi posted the message on X, presenting a two-day proposal. He stated that if the US meets the requirements, including an end to war on all fronts, the results will be visible. Otherwise, Iran’s battle-hardened warriors will unleash a fierce response.

The US reaction was cautious. President Donald Trump told CNN that fresh strikes are "highly unlikely" if negotiations continue regarding Iran's nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that the decision depends on whether Tehran signs a "very strong agreement."

Trump emphasized the readiness of American forces. He said three aircraft carriers are "fully locked and loaded" in the region. The president also claimed US forces have identified 38 bridges within Iran’s reach that they could "knock down in literally one hour."

Tensions rose earlier in the day after an oil tanker caught fire east of the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian navy reported the vessel struck a naval mine. Officials said the ship’s identification systems were off and it was traveling through a designated no-go zone.

Ali Belali, an adviser to the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' Aerospace Force, reinforced the foreign minister's stance. Belali stated in a Telegram message that weapons are "secured for years to come." He added that the armed forces are ready and that Iran’s response would be "devastating and severe" if the enemy makes a mistake.

The diplomatic exchange follows the US midterm elections, where the Democratic Party took control of both chambers of Congress. Araghchi said the vote has slowed negotiations. He noted that it will take time for the atmosphere to become conducive for mediators to resume their visits.