RismadarVoice Reporters
October 31, 2026
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has warned that any renewed military attack by the United States or Israel would trigger an immediate response without geographical limitations, as diplomatic efforts intensify to prevent further escalation in the Middle East.
Khamenei issued the warning on Saturday, October 31, following a reported meeting with senior Iranian military commanders, during which he outlined strategic directives aimed at strengthening the country’s defence capabilities.
According to a statement released by his office, the Supreme Leader ordered the armed forces to maintain maximum deterrence and prepare for a decisive response to potential attacks.
He also directed military commanders to update Iran’s list of possible targets, including American and Israeli assets, while strengthening intelligence gathering and operational readiness.
The warning comes amid concerns about possible renewed American military strikes following the United States midterm elections scheduled for November 3.
However, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said President Donald Trump had not decided whether to authorise further attacks, stressing that Washington preferred a diplomatic resolution.
Meanwhile, Iranian negotiators held discussions with Qatari mediators in Doha on Saturday, following more than 12 hours of consultations in Tehran on Friday.
The negotiations are focused on reducing hostilities, reopening the strategic Strait of Hormuz and addressing disagreements between Washington and Tehran.
Iran is demanding the removal of the American maritime blockade on its ports, the release of frozen assets and arrangements allowing commercial shipping through an agreed route in the strait.
The diplomatic initiative follows a letter reportedly sent by US Vice President JD Vance to Iranian security chief Mohsen Rezaei.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi acknowledged the communication, describing renewed American diplomatic engagement as a positive development while maintaining that Tehran’s conditions must be addressed.
Tensions have also increased around the Strait of Hormuz following reports of attacks on commercial vessels.
Iranian officials accused American forces of attacking two fishing boats near Qeshm Island on Saturday, reportedly injuring one fisherman. Washington had not confirmed the allegation.
Separately, maritime authorities reported that explosive devices attached to an oil tanker caused a fire near Oman’s Khasab coast, although responsibility remained unclear.
The developments underscore continuing regional security concerns as diplomatic efforts seek to prevent further military confrontation.
