Iran Warns of Imminent War with Israel
A senior Iranian general warns Israel could face attack at any moment, rejecting a U.S.-mediated ceasefire and signaling readiness for new conflict, as tensions escalate following the 12-Day War.
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A senior Iranian general and advisor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei warned that Iran could attack Israel at any moment, rejecting any binding ceasefire and signaling readiness for a new war, Iranian media reported. The provocative statement escalates tensions as Israel prepares a major offensive in Gaza and follows recent Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure.
Yahya Rahim Safavi, a senior Revolutionary Guards general, said Iran is not bound by the U.S.-mediated ceasefire brokered by President Donald Trump. “We are not in a ceasefire with Israel and the U.S. There is no written protocol. The fire could resume at any moment,” Safavi told reporters. “A new war could break out, and after it, wars may cease,” he added, emphasizing Iran’s need to prepare for the worst-case scenario. “The best defense is offense,” he said, calling for strengthened diplomacy, media, missiles, drones, and cyber capabilities.
The remarks follow Israel’s Operation Rising Lion two months ago, which targeted Iran’s nuclear scientists, ballistic missile facilities, and military leadership, causing significant losses, according to Tasnim news agency. Over 3,500 homes in Tehran alone were damaged, many requiring demolition and rebuilding. Safavi’s comments also respond to Israeli Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir’s recent statement that Israel would strike Iran again if needed to counter existential threats. During a military ceremony, Zamir said the operation “halted Iran’s dangerous buildup” and sent a clear message that Israel would act decisively to protect its existence (N12, August 18, 2025).
Iran’s military issued a separate warning, vowing a “far stronger” response to any future Israeli or U.S. attack. “We warn the criminal America and the malicious Zionist regime to abandon their conspiracies against invincible Iran,” the statement said, threatening “new surprises and crushing blows” if attacked again. The rhetoric comes amid fears in Tehran of another Israeli airstrike, following Zamir’s comments on Iran’s halted but dangerous capabilities.