By Sandra Kenneth
Iran’s military delivered a stark warning on Sunday, declaring that regional hostilities will expand further across the Middle East if the United States continues military strikes against the Islamic Republic.
The warning comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares for high-stakes talks at the White House with U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday.
Speaking on state television, Iranian army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia warned Washington against aligning with Israeli policy in the region.
“I believe that if the Americans once again fall for the Zionists’ deception, or move in line with them, and insist on continuing the war, particularly through air strikes, geographically this will expand further,” Akraminia said.
Regional Footprint Expanding
According to Akraminia, the scope of conflict has already widened significantly, pointing to recent military flare-ups between Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen and Saudi Arabia around the Bab al-Mandab Strait—a critical maritime bottleneck at the entrance of the Red Sea.
“The scope of our operations now encompasses the entire region, from U.S. bases in Jordan to the countries along the Persian Gulf,” he asserted, suggesting Tehran is prepared to target Western interests and regional installations if provoked.
Strategic Uncertainty in Washington
Describing the current situation as “difficult and unsettled” for American policymakers, the Iranian military spokesman claimed Washington is actively searching for a recalibrated approach to the crisis.
“We are prepared for each of the options and scenarios that appear likely,” Akraminia added, emphasizing that Iran’s forces remain on high alert.
The comments set a tense backdrop for Tuesday’s scheduled meeting in Washington, where Netanyahu and Trump are expected to discuss coordinated defense strategies and regional security threats.