Iranian military officials have issued a stark warning, with the commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declaring that Tehran would “open the gates of hell” if attacked by the United States or Israel.
Major General Hossein Salami made the threat amid escalating tensions and a series of confrontational statements between Iranian, Israeli, and American officials, set against the backdrop of stalled nuclear talks and renewed U.S. sanctions targeting Iran’s oil sector.
Newsweek has reached out to the State Department and the foreign ministries of Iran and Israel.
Why It Matters
Rising tensions between Iran, Israel, and the U.S. are pushing the region toward greater instability, where diplomatic efforts and military deterrence are increasingly intertwined.
Tehran’s stance, coupled with renewed sanctions and Israeli threats, suggests that negotiations are nearing a breaking point. The recent deployment of B-52 bombers nearer to Iran underscores Washington’s reinforced military posture as nuclear talks remain stalled.
President Donald Trump‘s upcoming Middle East visit will likely focus on reinforcing regional security and strengthening alliances, further heightening the stakes in an already volatile environment.
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What to Know
In a video shared by state news agencies on Thursday, Major General Salami warned the U.S. and Israel of dire consequences if either country initiates an attack. He accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of trying to drag the U.S. into an “unending war” and emphasized that Iran is ready to fight on all levels while still prioritizing diplomacy.
Salami’s statements align with similar warnings made earlier this week by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who accused Washington of provocative behavior. Iranian officials have also denied any involvement in a recent missile attack near Ben Gurion Airport, instead attributing Houthi actions to independent support for Palestinians.
Israel Vows to Strike
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz escalated rhetoric by warning Iran that it would face direct retaliation for recent events, including Houthi missile strikes. Katz cited Israeli actions in Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria as precedents for possible future operations in Tehran.
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Fresh Oil Sanctions
Meanwhile, President Trump’s administration announced new sanctions targeting Chinese firms allegedly involved in buying or facilitating Iranian oil shipments. Among them is Hebei Xinhai Chemical Group, a private Chinese refinery. The U.S. also targeted vessels and operators linked to Iran’s “shadow fleet,” which Washington says funds terrorist proxies and regional destabilization.
Nuclear Talks to Resume
Despite heightened rhetoric, both Washington and Tehran have agreed to continue negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. A fourth round of talks is expected this weekend in Oman. So far, three rounds have been completed.
What People Are Saying
IRGC Major General Hossein Salami warned: “These are serious warnings to the Zionist and American authorities. if you make the slightest mistake, we will open the gates of hell for you.”
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said: “What we have done to Hezbollah in Beirut, to Hamas in Gaza, to Assad in Damascus, we will do to you in Tehran.”
What Happens Next
The upcoming nuclear negotiations in Oman, alongside President Donald Trump’s upcoming Middle East visit, may determine whether a diplomatic breakthrough is still possible or whether escalating threats will push the region closer to conflict.
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