Iran Warns of Full-Scale War Against US as Conflict Escalates

Iran has warned that it could shift from a defensive posture to full-scale offensive operations if the United States continues its military campaign, as the latest escalation in the conflict has raised fears of a wider regional war.

Mohsen Rezaei, a senior military adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader, said Tehran would no longer limit itself to retaliatory strikes if US attacks continued. He warned that American forces and bases could face attacks beyond Iran's borders.

The warning came after two US service members were killed and another was reported missing following an Iranian ballistic missile and drone attack on a US-linked military base in Jordan. Four other American service members were injured and later discharged from hospital, according to US Central Command.

Iran has also intensified attacks against US allies in the region, while Washington has continued strikes on Iranian targets. The renewed hostilities followed the collapse of an interim ceasefire agreement, raising concerns that the conflict could move closer to a broader regional war.

Iran claims 50 killed, more than 500 injured

Iranian authorities have reported that at least 50 people have been killed and more than 500 injured in US strikes, according to reports citing Iranian figures. The latest escalation has also fuelled concerns about possible disruptions to energy supplies and the wider global economic impact of a prolonged conflict.

Fears of wider regional and economic fallout

The conflict has increased concerns over the security of key energy routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. Any prolonged disruption in the region could put further pressure on global crude oil supplies and prices, while increasing the risk of broader economic instability.