Iran’s Hossein Salami declares readiness for direct clash with US – War on the horizon?

In a statement that has sent ripples across the globe, Hossein Salami, the chief commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, declared on Wednesday that Tehran is ready for direct military confrontation with Washington. This bold declaration comes amid rising tensions between Iran and the United States, setting the stage for a potential geopolitical showdown.

Salami’s remarks were a direct response to threats from US officials about targeting Iran. “We do not leave any threat unanswered, and we do not look for war, but we are not afraid of it. This is the well-known truth,” he stated emphatically. These words reflect Iran’s unwavering stance and readiness to respond decisively to any aggression.

The tension escalated following US President Joe Biden’s comments regarding a drone attack in Jordan that killed three US service members. Although the Biden administration has stated that it is not seeking war with Iran, the rhetoric from both sides suggests a volatile situation.

Military Tensions Escalate: Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Ready for Direct Confrontation with US

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, took a slightly different tone, urging America to cease using the language of threat and instead focus on a political solution. “Iran’s response to threats is decisive and immediate,” he added, reinforcing the nation’s stance on self-defense.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s statement on Monday that the US would take “all necessary actions” to defend its troops adds another layer to the already complex regional dynamics. The US has accused Iran-backed militants of the deadly drone attack in Jordan, a claim Tehran vehemently denies.

In recent weeks, tensions have further intensified in the West Asian region, drawing in Iran-backed groups from Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen. Iran, while supporting what it calls “resistance groups” in the region, maintains that these groups are independent in decision and action.

The statements from both Iranian and US officials signify a critical juncture in Iran-US relations. Iran’s assertive posture, articulated by Hossein Salami, underscores the nation’s preparedness for potential military engagement. However, it also opens the door for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions. The current situation demands careful navigation to avoid a full-scale conflict, with both nations holding significant influence in the volatile West Asian region.