Iran Threatens US With 'Crushing' Response

By Amir Daftari

Iran has issued a stark warning of potential broader military action following a new wave of U.S. sanctions targeting individuals and companies linked to Tehran's military programs.

"I can assure you that if the enemy tries to make a move, it will face a crushing and regrettable response," said senior Iranian army official General Ahmad Reza Pourdastan, emphasizing that while Iran has relied primarily on missile strikes, future engagements could extend to other spheres.

Newsweek has reached out to the State Department and Iran's Foreign Ministry for comment.

Why It Matters

Iran's warning comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following June's war with Israel and U.S. strikes on its nuclear sites. Stalled nuclear talks and new American sanctions targeting military funding have tightened the squeeze on Tehran's economy.

The standoff also threatens regional stability and global energy markets, with rising oil prices and potential supply disruptions raising the stakes worldwide.

What To Know

"We mainly confronted the enemy with missiles, but in a future conflict, if necessary, we will strike across other battlefields," Pourdastan told local Iranian media.

He stressed that while recent missile attacks targeted Israel and the U.S.-operated Al Udeid air base in Qatar, Iran is ready to broaden its military reach beyond conventional strikes, showcasing both tactical versatility and a firm resolve to counter any perceived threats.

New U.S. Sanctions

Pourdastan's statement comes as the U.S. imposed a new wave of sanctions targeting Iranian individuals and companies accused of facilitating funding for the country's military programs.

The Treasury Department said the measures focused on networks supporting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Ministry of Defense, including transactions derived from Iranian oil sales.

Crypto Network

Sanctioned individuals include Iranian nationals Alireza Derakhshan and Arash Estaki Alivand, who allegedly helped the Iranian government purchase $100 million in cryptocurrency.

The penalties freeze any of their U.S.-held assets and bar American citizens and companies from conducting business with them. Officials said the move is part of a broader effort to disrupt Iran's weapons programs, limit military funding, and curb its influence across the region.

Oil 'To Zero'

U.S. Treasury Undersecretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence John K. Hurley emphasized that the administration will continue targeting networks that support Iran's weapons programs and "malign activities in the Middle East and beyond." President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated his goal of driving Iran's oil exports "to zero," including actions against international networks.

What People Are Saying

Senior Iranian Army Official General Ahmad Reza Pourdastan: "I can assure you that if the enemy tries to make a move, it will face a crushing and regrettable response."

Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence John K. Hurley: "Under President Trump's leadership, we will continue to disrupt these key financial streams that fund Iran's weapons programs and malign activities in the Middle East and beyond."

What Happens Next

Iran's warnings and U.S. sanctions point to a tense, ongoing standoff. Continued economic pressure is aimed at curbing Iran's oil exports, while Tehran maintains full military readiness, creating a volatile situation that could escalate if either side miscalculates.