U.S. President Donald Trump says he hopes to reach a deal with Iran even as tensions escalate following a warning from Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei who cautioned that any American attack could spark a wider regional war.
Speaking to reporters Trump said strong rhetoric from Tehran was expected but he remains optimistic that diplomacy could still succeed. He added that the United States prefers an agreement but has not ruled out other options if talks fail.
Khamenei meanwhile issued a stern warning saying that any military action against Iran would not remain limited and could engulf the entire region. He accused foreign powers of fueling unrest and urged Iranians to remain steadfast in the face of external pressure.
The comments come amid rising tensions with the United States increasing its military presence in the Middle East including naval and air deployments. Washington says the moves are defensive while Tehran views them as provocation.
Regional allies and international partners are calling for restraint warning that further escalation could destabilize the Middle East and impact global security and energy markets.
Despite the sharp exchange of words analysts say both sides may still be keeping the door open for negotiations as the cost of conflict would be high.
For now the world watches closely as diplomacy and confrontation continue to compete for the next move.
