Iran Plans Stronger Response if US Attacks Resume

Iran is preparing for a broader military response if the United States resumes large-scale attacks, even as Tehran keeps diplomatic channels open in an effort to prevent another major escalation.

Senior Iranian commanders are reviewing plans that could expand potential targets beyond US-linked assets to countries supporting American military operations and possibly locations outside the Middle East, according to officials familiar with the discussions. No final decision has been made, but preparations have intensified amid the continuing US-Iran standoff. Reuters reported that allied groups in Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq have also been told to prepare for a coordinated response.

The conflict began with US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28 and has continued through periods of fighting and temporary pauses. Hamidreza Azizi of the International Crisis Group said Tehran appears determined to respond more forcefully to future attacks in an effort to restore deterrence.

At the same time, Iran is pursuing negotiations as economic pressure mounts. Tehran presented Washington with a seven-day proposal through Qatari mediators during the UN General Assembly. The plan included reopening the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for measures including lifting the US naval blockade, releasing frozen Iranian assets and easing oil sanctions. President Donald Trump rejected the initial proposal, although Qatar has continued carrying messages between the two sides.

A major obstacle remains Iran's nuclear program and the sequencing of concessions. Washington wants nuclear commitments incorporated into a broader agreement, while disagreements remain over when each side would take specific steps.

Iran's calculations are also shaped by mounting economic and domestic pressures. Sanctions, restrictions on oil exports and months of conflict have strained the economy, while authorities remain concerned about renewed unrest.

With diplomacy still unresolved and the United States expanding its military presence in the Middle East, the risk of another escalation remains significant. The US is deploying additional troops and another aircraft carrier to the region as Washington weighs its next steps toward Iran.