Iran Prepares for Possible Retaliation Amid Tensions with Israel

TEHRAN, Iran — U.S. tensions with Iran are escalating as reports indicate that Israel may be planning an attack on Iranian nuclear facilities. U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the region, Steve Witkoff, warned Senate Republicans in a closed briefing that such an attack could prompt a devastating response from Iran.

As negotiations between the U.S. and Iran prepare to continue in Oman this Sunday, Witkoff expressed concerns that military action by Israel could lead to mass casualties and significant damage on both sides. U.S. military officials are reportedly considering precautions, including the evacuation of non-essential personnel from its embassy in Baghdad and bases in the Gulf.

Speaking on the increasing military readiness, Iran’s security officials stated that the country is prepared to respond decisively to any acts of aggression. Major General Hossein Salami of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps warned that U.S. interests in the region would be targetable if a direct attack occurs.

A senior Iranian official emphasized that the country is currently at its highest level of military readiness. This comes as Iranian leaders reaffirm their commitment to uranium enrichment, which they consider an inalienable right.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seemingly waiting for approval from Trump to act against Iran, although U.S. officials are expressing concern about the potential fallout from such an ordeal. Witkoff’s discussions with Netanyahu and senior Israeli officials highlight the delicate nature of the current geopolitical climate.

Recent assessments suggest that Iran has increased its missile production significantly since previous strikes on Israel in late 2024. The Israeli military is preparing for a range of possible responses, with warnings from the U.S. indicating that Iranian retaliation could overwhelm Israel’s defense systems.

This tension arises not only from military positioning but also from ongoing nuclear negotiations which have stalled. The U.S. has called for a complete cessation of Iran’s enrichment activities, which Iran insists is a violation of its rights under international agreements.

As talks loom, the international community remains watchful, knowing that any escalation could have far-reaching consequences, both regionally and globally.