Khamenei Vows Unrestricted Response to Potential US Strikes

The directive, published via Khamenei’s official social media channels, mandates that Iran’s armed forces maintain high-level combat readiness to counter any perceived threats. Khamenei emphasized that the timing and conditions for ending potential hostilities would remain solely under the control of the Iranian leadership and military, effectively rejecting external pressure to de-escalate on Western terms.

Simultaneously, the strategic landscape remains volatile as President Donald Trump asserts that time favors the United States. While characterizing the seven-month conflict as unconventional, Trump claimed that internal economic strain in Iran—specifically regarding unpaid security forces—weakens Tehran’s long-term position. Despite this public stance, reports suggest a potential diplomatic opening. A draft framework, potentially mediated by China, suggests a path toward negotiations in Doha. Proposed terms include the transfer of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping, signaling that behind the scenes, both nations are exploring a breakthrough to move from indirect contact to direct talks.