The United States says its forces are prepared to resume combat operations against Iran if directed to do so, according to Washington’s top military officer speaking Tuesday. The comments come as the Pentagon warns it would respond with “devastating” consequences to Iranian attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The latest escalation follows a burst of attacks on Monday in the strategic trade route involving both Iran and the United States, raising fears of a broader conflict.
Iran’s chief negotiator says Tehran “had not even started yet,” signaling further pressure through the region’s shipping lane. Separately, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards’ navy warns of a “firm response” if any ships deviate from an approved route through the strait.
The dispute also includes accusations involving the United Arab Emirates. The UAE says it is facing a barrage of missiles and drones from Iran for a second day, while Iran’s military denies that it launched missile or drone operations against the UAE, stating in a public statement that no such attacks occurred in recent days.
