What’s going on
- Iran's president said Iran is in an “all-out war” with the US, Europe, and Israel. He also said Iran's armed forces are more prepared than ever.
- He made the comments in public remarks in Iran this week. They were framed as a warning to foreign governments and reassurance to a domestic audience.
- The statement follows a pattern of escalating rhetoric between Iran and its rivals. Tensions have been high since the Israel-Gaza war began in October 2023 and spread into wider regional confrontations.
- Iran backs armed groups and political allies across the region, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and armed factions in Iraq and Syria. The US and several European governments say Iran's support fuels instability and threatens their forces and partners.
- Israel has long treated Iran as its main strategic threat. In recent years, it has repeatedly accused Iran of supplying weapons and technology that can be used against Israel, including drones and missiles.
- US and European officials have continued tightening sanctions and increasing diplomatic pressure on Iran. They have also kept military assets in the region, saying they are there to deter attacks and protect shipping and partner states.
Why it matters
- Such statements can harden positions on all sides and make de-escalation harder. They also complicate diplomacy on Iran's nuclear programme and sanctions, where talks have repeatedly stalled.
- Any rise in direct clashes or attacks by aligned groups can affect shipping and energy markets. The Middle East remains central to global oil supply routes, including passages used for fuel exports.