TEHRAN: Iran would view any military strike against it as the start of a full-scale war and would respond forcefully, a senior Iranian official said on Friday, as the United States prepares to deploy additional naval and military assets to the Middle East.
Speaking anonymously, the official said Iran’s armed forces have been placed on maximum readiness amid concerns that the U.S. military buildup could signal a potential confrontation. While Tehran hopes the deployment is not intended to escalate tensions, it is preparing for the most severe outcome.“Regardless of how an attack is labeled limited, targeted, or otherwise — Iran will consider it an act of total war,” the official said. “Our response would be decisive and uncompromising.”
The comments come as U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that a large U.S. naval presence was moving toward the region, describing it as an “armada,” while adding that he hoped force would not be necessary. Trump also reiterated warnings to Tehran over its nuclear activities and its handling of domestic unrest.
According to the Iranian official, any violation of Iran’s territorial integrity would be met with retaliation, though no details were provided about the nature of such a response.
Living under what it views as ongoing military pressure from Washington, Iran believes it must be prepared to use all available means to defend itself and deter potential attackers, the official added.
The United States has previously increased its military footprint in the Middle East during periods of rising tensions, often framing such moves as defensive. However, a significant U.S. buildup last year preceded airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June, raising concerns in Tehran that history could repeat itself.
