Iran warns regional nations against aiding US military actions

Iran's Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Maj. Gen. Ali Abdollahi, has issued a stern warning to neighboring countries, particularly those on the southern shores of the Persian Gulf, against providing any assistance or facilitation to the U.S. military. Abdollahi stated that such actions would be viewed as direct participation alongside U.S. forces in any aggression against Iran, emphasizing that "nothing is hidden from our eyes."

This warning comes amid heightened regional tensions and follows similar statements from Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who indicated that countries supporting military action against Iran would face international responsibility and be held accountable for violating international obligations. Araghchi stressed Iran's right to self-defense under international law.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump asserted that no talks with Iran were underway or planned, and that the Strait of Hormuz remained open under a naval blockade. Reports suggest a strategic shift in U.S. policy towards Iran, moving from immediate "hammering" to a longer-term "strangle" approach. Despite Trump's statement, U.S. envoy Jared Kushner described communications between the U.S. and Iran as "more robust than ever."

Tehran and Washington had previously agreed to a cease-fire and a memorandum of understanding aimed at peace, but the deal collapsed last month, leading to a period of exchanged attacks before Trump halted further bombardment.