Tensions between Washington and Tehran have escalated sharply after reports that the United States is preparing renewed military strikes on Iran following the breakdown of diplomatic negotiations, prompting Iranian officials to warn they have prepared comprehensive plans to retaliate against any attack.
The reported move marks a significant deterioration in relations after earlier signs that both sides remained open to dialogue. It comes amid a fragile regional environment in which previous rounds of strikes had already unsettled global markets and raised fears of a wider conflict.
An Iranian official quoted by the Tasnim news agency said Tehran had comprehensive plans in place to respond to any “mad” US strikes, signalling that Iran was prepared to move beyond rhetoric should Washington proceed with military action.
The Wall Street Journal reported that President Donald Trump had ordered fresh strikes on Iran as talks collapsed, according to a report cited by Investing.com. The reported directive would represent a decisive turn away from the diplomatic track that had been pursued in recent months.
The developments follow a period in which Trump had publicly weighed his options, at times indicating he was nearing a decision on a large-scale operation while also leaving the door open to renewed negotiations.
Earlier US-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets had already triggered widespread concern across energy and equity markets, with analysts warning of the potential for supply disruptions and heightened volatility should hostilities intensify.
Iran has consistently maintained that it would respond to any attack on its territory, framing its posture as defensive while cautioning that retaliation could target US assets and allies in the region.
Washington has not publicly detailed the scope or timing of any planned operation, and specific details of the reported directive remain unconfirmed. The situation continues to evolve rapidly, with both governments issuing warnings amid the diplomatic breakdown.
The stakes extend well beyond the two countries. A renewed round of strikes risks drawing in regional actors, disrupting critical shipping lanes, and sending fresh shockwaves through global oil markets already sensitive to Middle East instability.
The coming days are expected to be decisive, as the international community watches for confirmation of any military action and for Tehran’s response, which Iranian officials insist is fully prepared.