01.02.2026 14:00
Iran's leader Ali Khamenei stated that a possible war initiated by the U.S. would not be limited to Iran but would escalate into a regional conflict, emphasizing that his country would not initiate an attack but would respond strongly to any aggression.
The religious leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei, stated in a statement on Sunday that any war initiated by the United States would cross Iran's borders and turn into a large-scale regional conflict. In remarks reflected in state media, Khamenei said, "America should know that if it starts a war, this time it will be a regional war."
"THESE THREATS ARE NOT NEW"
Khamenei pointed out that U.S. officials have repeatedly raised the rhetoric of war in the past, recalling mentions of aircraft carriers and fighter jets. He reiterated Washington's statement that "all options are on the table," which also includes the possibility of military intervention.
REFERENCE TO TRUMP: THE PEOPLE OF IRAN ARE NOT AFRAID
In his statements targeting U.S. President Donald Trump, Khamenei noted that Trump often mentioned sending ships to the region but expressed that the people of Iran should not be afraid of such moves. Khamenei stated that Iranians are not affected by these threats and emphasized that they will not bow to military intimidation.
"WE WILL NOT INITIATE AN ATTACK BUT WE WILL RESPOND"
Khamenei stated that Iran has no intention of attacking any country, but in the event of an attack on his country, a strong response would be given. "We will not be the party that initiates anything and we do not want to attack any country, but the Iranian nation will deliver a strong punch to anyone who attacks and harasses it," he said.
COMPARISON OF INTERNAL TURMOIL TO A 'COUP'
Khamenei also evaluated the recent protests and turmoil in Iran in the same speech. He likened the events to a coup attempt and stated that this attempt was suppressed.
"THE HEART OF THE STATE WAS TARGETED"
According to Khamenei, the aim was to harm the country's sensitive and effective management centers. In his statement, Khamenei claimed that police units, state institutions, Revolutionary Guards centers, banks, and mosques were targeted, and he also alleged that the Quran was burned. "They attacked the centers that govern the country," he said.