Iran warns of retaliation as US tightens sanctions regime

Iran's newly appointed security chief declared on Sunday that Tehran will treat any country's support for additional US sanctions as an act of war, marking a significant escalation in rhetoric amid mounting international pressure on the Islamic Republic.

The warning reflects growing concerns in Tehran about the widening scope of American sanctions and potential allied support for further measures. The threat to consider third-party backing of penalties as hostile action signals Iran's willingness to adopt an increasingly confrontational posture in response to economic restrictions.

The statement comes as the United States continues to expand its sanctions architecture targeting Iran's economy, financial sector, and key industries. Tehran has repeatedly condemned the sanctions regime as illegal under international law and has pledged to pursue countermeasures against what it characterises as economic warfare.

The Iranian security official's remarks suggest a hardening stance within Tehran's leadership on how it will respond to coordinated international pressure. The position also carries implicit warnings to regional and global partners that close alignment with American sanctions policy could trigger Iranian retaliation.

The escalating rhetoric underscores the deepening rift between Iran and Western powers, with no immediate signs of diplomatic breakthrough to resolve the underlying disputes driving the confrontation.