Iran has warned that it will give a “devastating and decisive response” if Israel attacks its nuclear facilities. The warning came from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), following media reports that Israel may be preparing to strike Iran’s nuclear sites.
IRGC spokesperson Alimohammad Naini said Israel is trying to scare Iran with the threat of war, but is underestimating Iran’s military strength and public support during conflict. He said Iran is ready for any situation and will defend itself strongly.
These warnings come just before Iran and the U.S. are set to hold their fifth round of nuclear talks in Rome. However, there are major disagreements between the two sides, especially on uranium enrichment. Iran insists it does not want nuclear weapons, but it is enriching uranium to 60% purity — a level much higher than needed for peaceful purposes.
Earlier this week, CNN reported that U.S. intelligence believes Israel is preparing for possible military action against Iran’s nuclear program. Another report by Axios said Israel might launch a weeklong military campaign if its diplomatic efforts with the U.S. fail.
In response, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran will take “special measures” to protect its nuclear facilities if Israel continues to threaten them. He urged the international community to take action to stop Israel’s threats. If not, Iran will act on its own, he said, without giving details of what those actions might be.
Araghchi also warned that Iran would see the U.S. as partly responsible for any Israeli attack, especially if the U.S. is seen as supporting or cooperating in it. He sent letters to the United Nations, urging them to step in and help prevent an escalation.
Iran’s nuclear program has already limited international inspectors’ access, making it harder for the world to monitor its activities.
In recent history, Iran launched two missile attacks on Israel in April and October 2024. Both were mostly stopped by air defenses involving the U.S. and its allies. In return, Israel bombed Iran twice.
According to CNN, Israeli leaders have not yet made a final decision about whether to attack, and even U.S. officials are divided on whether Israel will go through with it. It is unlikely Israel will strike while U.S.-Iran talks are ongoing. However, if negotiations break down or the outcome does not satisfy Israel’s security concerns, a strike becomes more likely.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, recently criticized the U.S. for making unreasonable demands, such as asking Iran to stop enriching uranium. He expressed doubt about whether the ongoing nuclear talks will lead to an agreement.
In short, tensions between Israel and Iran are rising amid slow nuclear negotiations with the U.S., and the risk of military conflict remains high if diplomacy fails.
