Iran warns of direct military response if US or allies escalate

Iran has issued a stark warning that it will launch a direct military response to any further escalation by the United States or its allies in the region. The Iranian military command stated that Washington's allies are considered parties to the conflict. The threat of a direct response targeting American bases and interests was made clear to state media.

Iran claims to have evidence that the US and its allies are preparing a significant attack, though specific details were not provided. The US State Department issued a security alert for American citizens in the Middle East, cautioning of a possible sudden escalation that could disrupt flights and close airspace. In related news, Iran-aligned Houthi rebels attacked Riyadh and a major oil facility in Yanbu on the Red Sea, causing thick smoke to rise near King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.

The Saudi-led coalition claimed to have thwarted other attacks. This escalation has bolstered Houthi control over the Bab al-Mandab Strait, potentially blocking shipping between the Red Sea and Asia and threatening a blockade of this crucial passage. Iran's economic crisis has worsened due to the US blockade of Iranian ports, heightening tensions in global energy markets.

Iran has vowed to maintain control of the Strait of Hormuz until the US meets its demands, while Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf emphasized Iran's commitment to combining military strength with diplomacy to achieve its objectives.