Mojtaba Khamenei Warns US of Wider Iran Retaliation
Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has ordered the country’s armed forces to prepare an immediate and geographically unrestricted response to any renewed military attack by the United States or Israel. The directive, issued on Saturday, October 31, 2026, comes amid growing concerns that Washington could launch fresh strikes against Tehran following the November 3 US midterm elections.
Mojtaba Khamenei Orders Iran Military to Expand Target List
In a statement issued following discussions with senior military commanders, Khamenei instructed Iran’s armed forces to maintain heightened combat readiness and strengthen their deterrence capabilities.
He ordered military planners to update their target database to include American and Israeli physical and non-physical assets within operational reach.
Khamenei warned that Tehran would determine the timing and conditions for ending hostilities if attacks against Iran resumed.
The directive signals Iran’s willingness to expand its military response beyond its immediate borders, although no specific targets or operational timetable were announced.
Trump Considers Fresh Military Strikes Against Iran
The warning follows reports that US President Donald Trump is considering another military operation against Iran after the November 3 congressional elections.
Washington has reportedly advised Gulf allies to prepare for potential escalation, while regional governments have expressed concern about retaliatory attacks on military installations and energy infrastructure.
Iranian military spokesperson Mohammad Akraminia separately warned that renewed American strikes could expand the conflict across a wider geographical area.
Qatar Leads Diplomatic Efforts to Prevent Renewed Conflict
Despite the escalating rhetoric, diplomatic efforts to prevent another confrontation remain underway.
Qatari mediators held discussions with Iranian officials in Tehran before continuing negotiations in Doha.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has indicated that diplomatic engagement remains possible, although Tehran continues to demand acceptable security guarantees and economic concessions.
Saudi Arabia and Egypt have urged restraint, warning that another military confrontation could have serious regional consequences.
The crisis follows the US-Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28, which triggered Iranian retaliation and widespread disruption across the Middle East.
