Iran warns of unrestricted retaliation if attacked as diplomacy continues

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 1 Nov, 12:25 · Archive

Iran's supreme leader says Tehran will respond without geographical limits if attacked.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei met with senior military commanders on Saturday and gave them directives to prepare for potential US-Israeli military action. He instructed them to ensure 'maximum deterrence' through readiness for 'an immediate and effective response, without geographical restriction' if attacked. The threat means Iran could target Europe and the South Caucasus, not just the immediate region.

Diplomatic efforts continue to prevent escalation. Senior diplomats from Qatar held extensive talks in Tehran on Friday, with further talks scheduled for Saturday. This follows a letter from US Vice President JD Vance to Iranian officials, reportedly addressing nuclear commitments and international inspection of Iran's nuclear programme.

Khamenei, who has not been seen publicly since military strikes began in late February, also called for an updated list of potential US and Israeli targets. According to Iranian state media, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander briefed him on military readiness, reporting that weapons production has increased 'seven-fold'. Khamenei said Iran would determine when and under what conditions any new attacks would end.

How it is being reported

• Iran’s supreme leader warns of 'geographically unrestricted response' if US attacks againIranian officials have nevertheless noted positive steps in mediated negotiations with the US, which is gearing up for key midterm elections next week.Euronews · 1 Nov, 12:10
• Iran warns of unfettered retaliation if attacked as mediators try for peaceIran’s supreme leader says Tehran’s potential response will not be restricted by geography.Al Jazeera · 31 Oct, 12:13

In this story: Iran · United States · Israel · Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei · JD Vance · Qatar · Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log