Iran Warns of Potential US-Israel Aggression Expansion
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TEHRAN, March 29 (AP) — Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned Sunday that the United States and Israel may attempt to broaden their aggression against Iran by enlisting other nations and orchestrating false-flag operations. The statement marks a significant escalation in diplomatic rhetoric amid rising tensions in the region.
Araghchi made the remarks during a press conference in Tehran, stating that Tehran perceives ongoing unprovoked aggression targeting the Islamic Republic by Washington and Jerusalem. He cautioned that adversaries could seek to involve third-party states in hostilities or stage incidents designed to implicate Iran in actions it did not commit.
"They may try to expand the scope of their aggression by dragging other countries into the conflict," Araghchi said. "They may also resort to false-flag operations to justify further military action against our territory."
The warning comes as geopolitical friction between Iran and Western powers has intensified in recent months. While the United States and Israel have not publicly commented on Araghchi's specific allegations, regional analysts note that military posturing has increased along the Persian Gulf and in the Levant. The United States maintains a naval presence in the region, while Israel has conducted periodic airstrikes against targets in Syria and Lebanon.
Iran has long accused Israel of conducting covert operations within its borders, including cyberattacks and sabotage campaigns. Tehran has also criticized U.S. sanctions and military deployments as acts of hostility. In response, Washington and Tel Aviv have repeatedly denied accusations of aggression, framing their actions as defensive measures against Iranian-backed militias and nuclear proliferation efforts.
The foreign minister's comments were delivered without specific details regarding the nature or timing of potential future operations. Araghchi did not specify which states might be drawn into the conflict or provide evidence of planned false-flag activities. However, he emphasized that Iran remains vigilant and prepared to respond to any threats to its sovereignty.
Regional observers are monitoring the situation closely, as heightened rhetoric could lead to miscalculations or unintended escalation. Diplomatic channels remain open, though no immediate de-escalation talks have been announced. The United Nations has called for restraint, urging all parties to avoid actions that could destabilize the Middle East further.
As of Sunday evening, no new military movements or diplomatic initiatives had been reported. The international community awaits clarification on whether the warnings signal an imminent shift in strategy or serve as a deterrent against future provocations. The question remains whether the United States and Israel will adjust their regional posture in light of Iran's public caution.