By DAYO ADESULU
Tensions between Tehran and Washington flared sharply on Tuesday after Iran’s Supreme Leader, , declared that Iran possesses the military capability to sink American naval vessels if conflict erupts.
In a series of forceful posts on his verified X account, Khamenei dismissed American military deployments in the Middle East and warned that U.S. warships operating near Iranian waters could face devastating consequences. The remarks have once again placed the spotlight on the fragile balance of power in the Gulf region.
As Iran threatens US warships, global observers are watching closely for signs of further escalation.
Khamenei Mocks Trump, Rejects US Pressure
Khamenei began by referencing past remarks attributed to former U.S. President regarding the endurance of the Islamic Republic.
“The US President has said that for 47 years, the United States hasn’t been able to eliminate the Islamic Republic. That is a good confession,” Khamenei wrote. “I say, you too will not be able to do this.”
His statement underscores Tehran’s long-standing narrative that decades of sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and military threats have failed to dismantle Iran’s political system since the 1979 revolution.
While Washington has consistently described its regional military presence as a deterrent strategy, Khamenei portrayed it as ineffective posturing.
“More Dangerous Than the Warship”
Addressing repeated U.S. naval deployments in the Gulf, Khamenei acknowledged the destructive power of American warships. However, he insisted that Iran holds a superior deterrent.
“The Americans constantly say that they’ve sent a warship toward Iran. Of course, a warship is a dangerous piece of military hardware,” he said. “However, more dangerous than that warship is the weapon that can send that warship to the bottom of the sea.”
The warning comes at a time when Iran threatens US warships amid increased naval patrols and heightened alert levels across strategic waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz — a critical corridor for global oil shipments.
Although Khamenei did not specify the weapon systems he referenced, Iran has repeatedly showcased advanced missile capabilities, drone technology, and fast-attack naval craft designed for asymmetric warfare in confined waters.
Warning of a Potential Military Blow
In a further escalation of rhetoric, Khamenei challenged the long-held U.S. claim of military supremacy.
“The US President keeps saying that they have the strongest military force in the world,” he stated. “The strongest military force in the world may at times be struck so hard that it cannot get up again.”
Such remarks reinforce Iran’s strategy of psychological deterrence. Analysts note that Tehran often combines military demonstrations with strong language to project strength both domestically and across the region.
As Iran threatens US warships, the messaging appears carefully calibrated to reassure supporters at home while signaling defiance abroad.
Anniversary Gathering in East Azerbaijan
Khamenei delivered the remarks during a meeting with thousands of residents from East Azerbaijan Province. The gathering marked the anniversary of the February 18, 1978 uprising in Tabriz — a key event that fueled the momentum leading to Iran’s Islamic Revolution.
By linking his warning to a historic revolutionary commemoration, the Supreme Leader tied present tensions to Iran’s long narrative of resistance against Western influence. This framing strengthens internal unity while reinforcing Tehran’s ideological posture.
A Cold War That Never Ended
The United States and Iran have maintained a hostile relationship for decades. Although the two nations are not engaged in open warfare, their rivalry plays out through sanctions, proxy conflicts, cyber operations, and periodic military brinkmanship.
Washington frequently deploys aircraft carriers and destroyers to the region as a show of force. U.S. officials argue that the presence aims to protect maritime security and deter aggression from Iran or its allied groups.
However, as Iran threatens US warships, Tehran presents those deployments as intimidation tactics that will ultimately fail.
Regional tensions have intensified in recent years due to disputes over nuclear development, maritime security incidents, and broader geopolitical rivalries. Consequently, each rhetorical escalation carries significant diplomatic weight.
Global Implications of Escalation
Security experts warn that even minor miscalculations in the Gulf could trigger broader instability. The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. Any confrontation affecting shipping lanes could disrupt global markets within hours.
Moreover, regional allies on both sides remain on alert. Gulf states, Israel, and Western partners monitor Iranian military statements closely. Meanwhile, Iran continues to assert that it will defend its sovereignty against any perceived aggression.
Although neither side has announced immediate military action, the sharp language heightens concern.
Strategic Messaging or Real Threat?
Observers suggest Khamenei’s comments serve multiple purposes. Domestically, they reinforce national pride and resistance. Internationally, they attempt to deter U.S. escalation by signaling readiness.
Still, history shows that rhetoric in this long-running standoff often exceeds immediate military intent. Diplomacy, back-channel negotiations, and regional balancing efforts continue behind the scenes.
For now, the phrase “they will go to the bottom of the sea” stands as the latest reminder that the uneasy standoff between Tehran and Washington remains volatile.
As Iran threatens US warships once again, the world waits to see whether the confrontation will remain rhetorical — or shift into a more dangerous phase.
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