Regional military escalation in the Middle East risks expanding geographically if the United States continues carrying out airstrikes alongside Israeli operations, according to Iranian military warnings issued ahead of high-level diplomatic talks in Washington.
Iranian Military Warning Over US Airstrikes
The warning came from military spokesperson Mohammad Akraminia during an interview with state television, reported by AFP on Sunday, July 26, 2026. Akraminia stated that any continued US military involvement supporting Israeli actions would broaden the conflict.
“I believe that if America once again is deceived by Zionist deceit, or moves in line with them, and insists on continuing the war, particularly through airstrikes, geographically this will expand much further,” Akraminia said.
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According to state media reports, Iranian officials have explicitly linked the widening operational scope of regional forces to maritime flashpoints near the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
Expansion Across Regional Waterways and Bases
Akraminia pointed to ongoing maritime tensions in the Bab al-Mandab Strait at the entrance of the Red Sea, where Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have engaged in military escalations involving Saudi Arabia. He noted that the operational theater has already grown significantly.
“Lingkup operasi kami sekarang mencakup seluruh wilayah, dari pangkalan AS di Yordania hingga negara-negara di sepanjang Teluk Persia,” Akraminia stated, noting that operations now span from US bases in Jordan to nations bordering the Persian Gulf.
Describing the current diplomatic and strategic environment for Washington as “difficult and unsteady,” Akraminia asserted that the American government is actively seeking new strategies.
“We are ready for any option and scenario that seems likely to happen,” he added.
Upcoming Washington Meetings Between Netanyahu and Trump
The warnings precede a scheduled visit to Washington by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Israeli officials announced on Friday that Netanyahu is set to meet with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday.
The high-level discussions in Washington arrive as regional actors brace for potential shifts in US policy regarding the ongoing conflicts involving Iranian-aligned groups across the Middle East.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who issued the warning about expanding Middle East conflict?
Iranian military spokesperson Mohammad Akraminia issued the warning during an interview with state television.
Which key locations were cited in the operational scope?
Iranian officials cited the Bab al-Mandab Strait at the entrance of the Red Sea, US bases in Jordan, and countries along the Persian Gulf.
When is Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu scheduled to visit Washington?
Israeli officials announced that Netanyahu will meet with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday, following a Friday announcement.
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