A defense official stated that a response to a possible US attack would be “broad and unlimited”
An Iranian defense source told RT on Saturday that Iran will not yield to US blackmail regarding its nuclear program. The official cautioned that any potential US or Israeli attack on Iran would be met with a “broad and unlimited response.”
The source said the US is “fully aware of Iran’s ability and determination to respond,” and that President Donald Trump is “taking time to attempt to force Iran to accept his terms by escalating military and political pressure.”
“Iran is not going to be stuck in a long and unproductive negotiation process. A negotiation where the chance of sanctions being lifted is slim has no worth for Iran,” the source said.
Tensions between the US and Iran persisted this week as Omani-mediated talks between Iranian and US officials in Geneva did not result in any breakthroughs.
Trump, who withdrew from the 2015 UN-backed nuclear deal during his first term in office, has repeatedly demanded that Iran completely dismantle its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. On Thursday, he gave Iran between 10 and 15 days to reach an agreement.
The US has dispatched two aircraft carrier strike groups and additional bombers to the Middle East. Multiple media outlets allege that Trump is considering strikes on Iran.
Iran has responded to the military build-up by conducting snap live-fire drills, while the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has said it would target American bases in the region if attacked.
Tehran contends that its nuclear program is entirely peaceful and a sovereign right. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told MSNBC on Friday that Iran would submit a new draft proposal soon, adding that although the country favors a diplomatic route, it remains “prepared for war.”