Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, issued a stern warning on Sunday, cautioning the United States against deploying forces to operate defense systems in Israel. In an online post, Araqchi voiced concern over reports that the US might send its Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system to Israel, a move that would involve American personnel.
“The US has delivered record amounts of arms to Israel,” Araqchi’s post read, “but now it risks the lives of its own troops by deploying them to operate missile systems.” While the Iranian Foreign Ministry did not release an official statement, the warning was prominently featured in Iranian state media.
The Pentagon confirmed plans to deploy the THAAD battery, citing the need to strengthen Israel’s defenses after multiple missile attacks from Iran in recent months. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin authorized the move, viewing the THAAD system as critical in intercepting incoming threats, following recent escalations involving Israeli and Iranian-backed forces in Lebanon.
Regional Threats and Retaliatory Planning
The Israeli Defense Ministry is reportedly considering a targeted response, with potential strikes against key Iranian military and energy assets, though nuclear facilities are not expected to be targeted. US officials believe Israel’s response could come in the near future, with some sources hinting it could align with national observances. However, as of Saturday, Israel has refrained from striking.
On Sunday, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Aerospace Commander Amir Ali Hajizadeh warned of Iran’s readiness to respond forcefully to any Israeli aggression. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant issued a parallel message, promising any Israeli strike on Iran would be “lethal, precise, and surprising.”
Diplomatic Efforts and Rising Regional Risks
In a bid to stave off further escalation, Araqchi is on a regional diplomatic tour, meeting in Baghdad with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein. In a joint press conference, Araqchi remarked on the Middle East’s “dangerous challenges” and reaffirmed Iran’s stance: “We do not seek war, but we are prepared for war.”
For his part, Hussein emphasized Iraq’s stance against regional warfare, stating that Iraq would prohibit Israeli use of its airspace for any potential strikes on Iran. Highlighting the region’s fragile stability, he added that a widespread conflict could create fertile ground for extremist groups like ISIS to resurface.
As tensions mount, the US, Iran, and Israel navigate a highly volatile landscape, with the stakes rising for all involved. With military assets mobilizing and diplomatic channels tested, the region remains on edge as the world watches for signs of either de-escalation or confrontation.
