Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated as White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan confirmed the continuation of retaliatory actions against Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria. In response, Iran issued a stern warning, stating it “will not hesitate” to retaliate if the US carries out attacks on its territory.

Sullivan, in a Sunday interview with NBC, refrained from ruling out the possibility of direct strikes on Iran, emphasizing that discussing specific actions is unwise. He underscored that any direct response from Iran to the United States would be met with a “swift and forceful” reaction.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman, Nasser Kanani, countered Sullivan’s remarks on Monday, asserting that the Islamic Republic has consistently responded decisively to threats against its security, territorial integrity, and sovereignty. Kanani emphasized that Iran possesses the capability and readiness to utilize its resources in response to any attacks on its soil.

During his weekly press briefing, Kanani reiterated Iran’s preference for de-escalation, stating that the country does not seek to exacerbate tensions or crises in the region. The spokesperson’s comments come amid heightened regional tensions, fueled in part by the Israel-Hamas conflict and involving Iran-backed groups in Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon.

Recent military actions have further strained relations, with the US carrying out airstrikes against missiles in Yemen, responding to persistent attacks by Iran-backed Huthis. Additionally, the US and UK forces conducted joint air raids against the Huthis in Yemen, marking their third round of military action in response to rebel attacks on shipping.

The US military’s strikes in Syria and Iraq over the weekend were in retaliation for a drone attack on a Jordanian base on January 28, where three US soldiers lost their lives. While President Joe Biden has attributed the attack to “radical Iran-backed groups,” he has emphasized that the US does not seek a broader conflict in the Middle East.

As the situation continues to evolve, the international community closely watches the dynamics between the US and Iran, with concerns over potential further escalation and the impact on regional stability.

Sources By Agencies