Iran Prepares Wider Retaliation if U.S. Attacks Resume

Iranian officials told Reuters that Tehran is considering a broader response if the United States launches large-scale attacks again. No final decision has been announced, and diplomatic efforts are continuing.

DUBAI — Iran is preparing for a wider and more forceful response if the United States resumes large-scale military attacks, according to a Reuters report citing three senior Iranian officials and another person familiar with the discussions.

The officials told Reuters that Iranian commanders are reviewing possible targets, the timing of any response and how far it could extend. The plans under consideration could include U.S.-linked interests and countries that support U.S. military operations. The sources also said potential targets could extend beyond the Middle East.

The report describes preparations and discussions—not a confirmed decision to launch an attack. Iran’s Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment.

Tehran weighs military planning and diplomacy

According to Reuters, Iranian leaders believe any renewed U.S. campaign would require a stronger response than before. At the same time, Tehran is keeping open a channel for negotiations, even as officials privately doubt that the sides will reach an agreement.

Iran submitted a proposal to Washington through Qatari mediators after the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Reuters reported that the proposal called for a halt to hostilities, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, lifting the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports, releasing frozen Iranian funds and easing oil sanctions.

U.S. President Donald Trump said he had rejected Iran’s proposal. Iranian state media reported that Washington later sent a response through Qatar, which Tehran was reviewing. The two governments have not publicly agreed on the terms or sequence for further negotiations.

A key point of disagreement is Iran’s nuclear programme. Reuters reported that Washington wants the issue included in talks, while Tehran says nuclear negotiations should begin only after its stated conditions are met.

Regional and global risks

The possible expansion of targets raises concerns that renewed U.S. strikes could trigger a wider confrontation involving regional partners and shipping routes. Iran has previously used missile and drone attacks in the region, and the Strait of Hormuz is a strategically important route for international oil and gas shipments.

Any further disruption could affect regional security, maritime traffic and energy markets. However, the reported Iranian plans remain conditional: the sources described what Tehran may do if the United States resumes large-scale attacks. They did not say an expanded response is inevitable or imminent.

The conflict has moved through periods of fighting and relative calm since U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran began on February 28, according to Reuters. An April ceasefire halted the 40-day war, but hostilities have continued intermittently, the report said.

For now, diplomacy and military planning are proceeding in parallel. The situation could change if either government announces new terms, military action or a formal agreement.

BBNN will update this report as more verified information becomes available.