“We hope this military buildup is not aimed at genuine confrontation; however, our military is prepared for the worst-case scenario. That is why everything is on high alert in Iran,” the official, who requested anonymity, remarked.
“This time we will categorize any attack—whether limited, unlimited, surgical, or kinetic—as an all-out war against us, and we will retaliate in the most severe way possible to resolve this situation,” the official added.
US President Donald Trump mentioned on Thursday that the United States had an “armada” on its way to Iran but expressed hope that it would not be necessary to use it, reiterating warnings to Tehran against harming protesters or restarting its nuclear activities.
“If the Americans infringe upon Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, we will respond,” stated the Iranian official. He refrained from detailing what the Iranian response might entail.
“A nation that constantly faces military threats from the United States has no choice but to ensure that all available measures can be utilized to defend itself and, if possible, restore balance against any aggressor,” the official indicated.
Historically, the US military has periodically deployed more forces to the Middle East during times of elevated tensions, typically for defensive purposes. However, last year, the US military conducted a significant buildup prior to its June strikes on Iran’s nuclear program.
First Published: Jan 24, 2026 8:47 AM IST
