Iran has warned the United States that Tehran will adopt a “new strategy” across the battlefield, diplomacy and its response to economic pressure, after the latest escalation produced the heaviest exchange of attacks between the two sides in weeks.

Mohsen Rezaei, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, issued the warning on Wednesday in a post on X. He said Iran’s new approach would target what he described as the US foundations through military, diplomatic and economic measures. 

Rezaei Issues Warning to Washington

Rezaei’s remarks came after a fresh round of hostilities between Iran and the US. Iranian authorities said the country carried out attacks against American positions in several locations across the Middle East, including Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain and Iraq’s Kurdistan region.

The strikes followed US military operations against Iranian targets. Iranian officials said those attacks caused 18 deaths, although casualty figures and details of the strikes have been reported primarily through Iranian sources. 

The latest exchange represents a significant escalation after a period in which direct military activity between the two sides had eased.

Six-Month Conflict Enters New Phase

The renewed fighting comes roughly six months after the conflict began and has added fresh uncertainty to efforts aimed at containing the confrontation.

Iran has continued to exert pressure around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy and shipping routes. At the same time, the United States has maintained pressure on Iranian ports through what reports describe as a counter-blockade.

The developments have raised concerns about the potential impact on regional security and global energy supplies, particularly if military activity around Hormuz expands.

Iran Accuses US Over Sirik Strike

Separately, Iran's Foreign Ministry accused the United States of committing a war crime following a strike that hit a wedding gathering in the southern Iranian city of Sirik.

Iranian officials said four people, including a child, were killed and more than 50 others were wounded. The US military has said it does not target civilians, while US Central Command has accused Iran's Revolutionary Guards of conduct that puts civilians at risk. The circumstances surrounding the wedding strike remain disputed. The incident has added to diplomatic tensions as both sides exchange accusations over civilian casualties.

Trump Warns of Further Retaliation

US President Donald Trump has warned Tehran against further retaliation and said Washington could respond with greater force if Iranian attacks continue.

Trump has also said he does not expect the renewed conflict to continue for a long period. However, the latest exchange of attacks has demonstrated how quickly tensions can escalate despite indications that both sides remain interested in possible diplomatic solutions. 

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has separately indicated that Tehran would respond positively to US moves toward an agreement aimed at ending the conflict.

Wider Regional Risks Grow

The latest confrontation has extended beyond Iran and US territory, with attacks and security alerts reported across several Gulf and Middle Eastern locations.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a particularly sensitive point. Any prolonged disruption to shipping through the waterway could affect international oil supplies and push up transportation and insurance costs.

Oil markets have already reacted to the renewed military activity. Reuters reported that Brent crude was trading around $95 a barrel on Thursday as investors assessed the risks to Middle Eastern supplies. 

What Iran’s ‘New Strategy’ Means

Rezaei did not provide specific operational details about the “new strategy”. His statement indicated that Tehran intends to combine military action with diplomacy and measures aimed at countering the economic pressure imposed on Iran.

For now, the warning signals that the latest escalation could mark a new phase in the US-Iran confrontation. Whether it leads to further military action or creates pressure for renewed negotiations will depend on the next moves by Washington and Tehran.

Iran has appointed veteran Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander Mohsen Rezaei as the new secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), placing one of the country's most experienced military figures at the centre of its national security decision-making.

The appointment comes at a particularly sensitive moment for Tehran, with tensions involving the United States and Israel continuing and the Strait of Hormuz remaining a major point of contention. Rezaei has also been appointed as Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei's representative on the council, underlining the importance of his new position. (Reuters)

Rezaei, 71, replaces Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, who held the SNSC secretary post for only a few months. Zolghadr has been moved to the position of political adviser to the Supreme Leader. The reshuffle has drawn attention because of Rezaei's long military career and his reputation as a hardline figure in Iran's political establishment. (Reuters)

A Veteran of Iran's Military

Born in Khuzestan in 1954, Rezaei became involved in Islamist opposition groups before the 1979 Iranian Revolution. He later joined the newly established IRGC and, at just 27, was appointed commander of the force in 1981.

He remained in charge of the IRGC for about 16 years, including through most of the 1980-1988 Iran-Iraq War. During his tenure, the IRGC developed from a revolutionary paramilitary organisation into a major military institution with ground, naval and aerospace capabilities.

His wartime record remains a major part of his political identity. Rezaei was associated with Iran's decision to continue military operations after Iranian forces had pushed Iraqi troops back across the border in the early stages of the conflict. Reuters describes him as a seasoned hardliner with decades of military and political experience. (Reuters)

From General to Political Figure

After leaving the IRGC command in 1997, Rezaei moved into senior political and institutional positions.

He served for years as secretary of Iran's Expediency Discernment Council, a powerful body involved in resolving disputes between parliament and the Guardian Council. He later became vice president for economic affairs under President Ebrahim Raisi.

Rezaei has also contested Iran's presidential elections several times, although he never won the presidency. His long career has given him experience across both Iran's military and political establishments.

Why His Appointment Matters

The SNSC is one of Iran's most important national security bodies. It brings together senior political, military and security officials and plays a central role in decisions concerning defence, foreign policy and major strategic issues.

Rezaei's appointment therefore goes beyond a routine change of personnel. His elevation gives a senior IRGC veteran a prominent role at a time when Tehran is dealing with military pressure, negotiations and disputes over regional security.

The appointment is also significant because Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei separately named Rezaei as his representative on the council. Reuters reported that the move reflects Rezaei's extensive military and security experience. (Reuters)

Strait of Hormuz in Focus

One of the most important issues facing Rezaei is the future of the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.

The route is critical to global energy markets because a substantial share of internationally traded oil passes through the region. Any prolonged disruption could therefore have consequences far beyond Iran and the Gulf.

Rezaei has previously taken a strong position on Iranian control over the waterway. His appointment comes while Tehran and Washington remain divided over sanctions, military deployments and arrangements for commercial shipping.

Reuters reported that talks mediated by Oman have been aimed at reopening the waterway, but major disagreements remain between Iran and the United States. (Reuters)

A Harder Line From Tehran?

The appointment has prompted questions over whether Iran is preparing for a tougher security and negotiating posture.

Rezaei has a long record of opposing concessions that he believes could weaken Iran's strategic position. His military background could make him an influential voice in discussions involving the United States, Israel, Gulf states and Iran's regional security interests.

However, his appointment alone does not necessarily establish a completely new Iranian policy. Reuters noted that no official explanation was immediately given for the leadership change or any specific policy shift resulting from it. (Reuters)

What Comes Next

Rezaei's immediate challenge will be to balance Iran's military priorities with diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions.

For Tehran, the issues are closely connected: the future of the Strait of Hormuz, US sanctions, regional military deployments and negotiations over security arrangements all affect Iran's broader strategy.

His appointment indicates that military experience will have an important place in that strategy. Whether Rezaei becomes the face of a tougher Iranian position or helps consolidate a more coordinated approach between the country's political and military leadership will become clearer as negotiations and regional tensions develop.

'Sea of Oman will become your graveyard': Iran hardliner warns US as Israel readies for renewed strikes

Tehran's Expediency Council member Mohsen Rezaei says US naval blockade amounts to 'act of war', as Israeli media reports military on high alert for fresh hostilities

A senior Iranian official has warned the United States to lift its naval blockade of Iranian ports, cautioning that the Sea of Oman could turn into a "graveyard" for American forces if tensions escalate further.

Mohsen Rezaei, a member of Tehran's Expediency Council and former commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, made the remarks during an interview with state television on Monday morning. He described the US blockade, first imposed on April 13, as an "act of war" and said Iran's military was fully prepared for additional confrontation.

"We advise the US military to end the siege before the Sea of Oman becomes your graveyard," Rezaei said. "The longer they prolong the naval blockade of Iran, the greater the damage to countries around the world will be."

Israeli military on high alert

The warning came as Israeli media reported that the Israel Defense Forces have been placed on high alert amid preparations for possible renewed hostilities with Iran. Public broadcaster Kan, citing an unnamed security official, said Israel would join any fresh American strikes and could target Iranian energy infrastructure.

The report followed a phone call lasting more than 30 minutes between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday. Trump has maintained that the blockade will continue until Iran agrees to a peace deal on US terms.

Meanwhile, dozens of US cargo planes carrying ammunition from military bases in Germany landed in Tel Aviv over the past 24 hours, according to Channel 13. The broadcaster said the shipments were part of preparations for a possible resumption of military operations against Iran.

UAE nuclear plant attack draws Indian concern

India on Monday expressed concern over the reported drone attack targeting the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the United Arab Emirates, calling it a "dangerous escalation" and urging all sides to exercise restraint.

The UAE has blamed Iran or one of its proxies for the strike, which caused a fire just outside the nuclear facility. Officials confirmed there were no injuries or radiation alerts, with the emirate's nuclear regulator stating there was no radioactive leak or risk to the public.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said the attack was unacceptable and stressed the need for an immediate return to dialogue and diplomacy amid rising regional tensions.

Oil prices surge as diplomacy stalls

Oil prices rose another 2 per cent on Monday, with Brent crude trading at $110.72 a barrel – more than 50 per cent higher than before the US-Israel war on Iran began. Trump's warning that the "clock is ticking" for a peace deal has added to market jitters.

Iran signalled tighter control over the Strait of Hormuz earlier in the day, with authorities saying all vessels passing through the crucial shipping route must now coordinate with Iranian military forces. Reports from Hormuz Island said IRGC naval units have claimed authority over the strait, warning that military vessels would not be allowed to pass.

According to Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, talks continue through Pakistan as a mediator, with both Tehran and Washington sending comments on a recent Iranian proposal. But Rezaei' rhetoric suggested any diplomatic breakthrough remains distant.

Strikes continue in Lebanon, Gaza

The Israeli military said it struck more than 30 Hezbollah infrastructure targets in southern Lebanon on Monday, including a weapons warehouse and observation posts. In Gaza, local reports said three Palestinians were killed when Israeli forces struck a kitchen providing meals to displaced people.

At least 871 people have been killed since the so-called "ceasefire" began last October, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza.

Iran Vows No Ceasefire Until Compensation, Sanctions Relief Secured

Tehran sets conditions for ending hostilities, demanding a full lifting of economic sanctions and binding guarantees from the United States against future interference.

Iran has firmly stated that the ongoing military conflict will not cease until its demands are met, including financial compensation for losses incurred during the 25-day-long war with Israel and the United States. Senior Iranian officials on Tuesday laid out a hardline stance, dismissing any prospect of a ceasefire without concrete diplomatic and economic assurances.

Tehran Lays Out Conditions

Mohsen Rezaei, a senior adviser to Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, declared in a televised address that Iran’s position is non-negotiable. He asserted that all economic sanctions must be lifted, and the US must provide a "firm guarantee" against any future interference in Iran’s affairs. Rezaei added that Iranian military operations continue with full force, with the leadership maintaining a firm grip on the situation under the new Supreme Leader. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf echoed the sentiment, noting that the public is demanding strict punishment for those responsible for the attacks against the nation.

Rezaei Blames Israel for Prolonged War

Rezaei claimed that the conflict could have concluded within a week had it not been for the actions of Israel. According to the senior official, the United States was prepared to agree to a ceasefire and de-escalate the situation. However, he alleged that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisted on continuing the military campaign, thereby prolonging the war. Rezaei further stated that by the 15th day of the conflict, even Washington had come to realize there was no clear path to victory in the region.

Conflicting Accounts on US-Iran Talks

The political landscape is further complicated by conflicting reports regarding potential negotiations. US President Donald Trump claimed on his social media platform that talks had been held with Iran, leading him to delay strikes on Iranian power plants for five days. Conversely, Iranian officials have categorically denied that any direct talks have occurred. Speaker Ghalibaf labelled the claims as “fake news” designed to manipulate financial and oil markets. However, a senior Iranian official provided a nuanced account to the BBC, confirming that "points from the US" were received through mediators and were currently under review.

Market Volatility Amid Diplomatic Confusion

The mixed signals have sent shockwaves through global financial markets. Brent crude oil prices briefly jumped back above $100 per barrel on Tuesday after a dramatic 10% plunge the previous day, reflecting the uncertainty. The initial drop was triggered by Trump’s statements about delaying strikes, while the subsequent rise followed Iran’s firm rejection of the talks and its reaffirmation of military readiness. Asian stock markets, particularly in South Korea, showed a slight recovery from Monday’s 17-year low for the won, as investors cautiously priced in hopes of de-escalation.

Regional Military Actions Escalate

The ground and aerial situation remains volatile. Israel confirmed a new wave of missiles was launched from Iran towards its territory, with air defence systems actively working to intercept them. Meanwhile, Iran released footage of missiles at an underground facility, a display of its military capabilities. In a separate development, the Israeli military reportedly destroyed the al-Qasmiya Bridge over Lebanon’s Litani River, a move that effectively cuts off southern Lebanon from the north. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz to most maritime traffic continues to strain global supply chains, prompting South Korea to cancel high-level diplomatic trips and Japan to announce the release of oil stockpiles.

What Next: A Diplomatic Crossroads

The coming days are critical as the international community watches for any official confirmation of a backchannel meeting. Reports suggest US Vice President JD Vance and other American officials may meet with their Iranian counterparts in Islamabad this week, though the White House has declined to confirm this, stating the situation remains fluid. For now, Iran’s official stance remains rigid, demanding a resolution on its terms, while the United States and Israel weigh their next military or diplomatic moves. The global economy remains on edge, bracing for either a de-escalation or a further intensification of the conflict.