Iran threatened on Wednesday to expand the war beyond the Middle East if the United States launches further attacks, following President Trump's revelation that he was within an hour of ordering new airstrikes. The warning from the Revolutionary Guards signals a dangerous escalation in a conflict that has already disrupted global energy supplies.
Six weeks after Trump paused Operation Epic Fury for a ceasefire, peace negotiations remain stalled. Iran submitted a new proposal to the US this week, but it repeats conditions previously rejected by Trump, including demands for control of the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief, and withdrawal of US troops.
Trump told reporters he had come close to restarting the bombing campaign but postponed it for more diplomacy. 'I was an hour away from making the decision to go today,' he said.
In a statement carried by state media, the Revolutionary Guards declared: 'If aggression against Iran is repeated, the promised regional war will extend beyond the region this time.'
Meanwhile, two Chinese tankers carrying 4 million barrels of oil exited the Strait of Hormuz, signaling Iran's willingness to ease its blockade for friendly nations. South Korea confirmed a Korean tanker also crossed in cooperation with Iran. Lloyd's List reported 54 ships transited the strait last week, double the previous week but far below the pre-war average of 140 per day.
Trump faces mounting pressure to end the war as soaring energy prices hurt his Republican Party ahead of November's congressional elections. Vice President JD Vance expressed cautious optimism. Energy prices remain volatile, with Brent crude hovering near $110 a barrel.
The ceasefire has mostly held, though sporadic attacks on Gulf states continue via drones launched from Iraq by Iran-aligned militias. The war has failed to achieve its stated goals of disabling Iran's nuclear program, missile capabilities, or support for regional militias.