US/Israel-Iran war: Trump warns Iran of ‘heavy hit’ as Tehran steps up Gulf diplomacy

Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari has harshly criticized President Donald Trump's latest threat of additional attacks on Iran, arguing that such a course would amount to "a crime against humanity." She has urged Democrats to take prompt action, should they regain control of Congress, to halt what she deems a "reckless war of choice."

Iran's Security Chief, Mohsen Rezaei, announced in Moscow that Russia will construct a gas pipeline to Iran, intending to help Iran stop its domestic gas consumption and sell Russian gas to neighboring regions instead. President Trump warned of a potential escalation in the Iran conflict, stating he may decide in the near future to "destroy the rest of the country" if necessary.

The remarks came after Democrats' recent gains in the midterm elections, raising questions about the extent of Trump's options before the new Congress takes office. Iran's maritime security has been strained, with Iran-linked attacks and surveillance of commercial vessels increasing around the Strait of Hormuz, while commercial traffic through the strategic waterway has remained below pre-conflict levels.