Iran will treat any military strike against it as an “all-out war,” a senior Iranian official warned on Friday, as the United States prepares to deploy an aircraft carrier strike group and additional military assets to the Middle East in the coming days.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, the official said Iran’s armed forces were on the highest level of alert amid what he described as a worrying US military buildup in the region.
“This military buildup — we hope it is not intended for real confrontation — but our military is fully prepared for the worst-case scenario,” the official said. “This time, any attack — whether limited, surgical or otherwise — will be considered an all-out war against us, and we will respond with maximum force.”
The warning comes after US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that a US naval “armada” was heading towards Iran, though he expressed hope that force would not be required. Trump also renewed warnings to Tehran over the killing of protesters and any attempt to restart its nuclear programme.
“If the Americans violate Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, we will respond,” the Iranian official said, without elaborating on the nature of a potential response.
He added that Iran, facing constant military pressure from Washington, had no choice but to ensure it was capable of defending itself and restoring balance in the region if attacked.
The United States has previously reinforced its military presence in the Middle East during periods of heightened tension, often citing defensive objectives. However, Washington carried out a major troop and asset buildup last year ahead of its June strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, escalating regional concerns.