Iran threatens long, painful retaliation against US if attacked again

Iran Threatens Retaliation if US Renews Attacks

A ceasefire between Iran and the United States has been in place since April 8. However, tensions remain high as Iran has stated it will respond with “long and painful strikes” on US positions across the Gulf region if Washington renews its attacks.

The Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil and gas supplies, remains closed due to the conflict. This has led to a surge in energy prices and increased concerns about an economic downturn. Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei defended the closure of the strait, stating that it is “legitimate, legal, and accepted” according to international law.

Baghaei also accused the US of “exploiting a waterway” and justified attacks on US assets in Gulf countries. He claimed that regional countries had cooperated with a foreign party in attacking an Islamic country during the holy month of Ramadan.

The United Arab Emirates has banned its citizens from traveling to Iran, Lebanon, and Iraq, and urged those currently in these countries to leave immediately and return home. Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa condemned Iranian aggression against Manama and accused Tehran of threatening his security and stability.

A deadline for Congress to approve the war is approaching, with a 30-day extension also being considered. A senior administration official stated that hostilities had ceased with the start of the April ceasefire, effectively resetting the clock. However, some lawmakers have expressed concerns about an imminent military strike, citing potential risks to American lives and massive casualties.

Meanwhile, Iran has been bracing itself for likely attacks, with air defence activity reported in some areas of the capital, Tehran.

Source: Al Jazeera