Iran threatens retaliation if US resumes attacks

Iran has threatened to "rain down hell" if the United States resumes attacks, as Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi issued an ultimatum to end the eight-month war between the two countries. President Donald Trump warned US forces are "locked and loaded" and ready to strike if necessary. Araghchi stated on X that Tehran's two-day proposal offers an end to war on all fronts if requirements are met, or conflict with "battle-hardened warriors" otherwise. Trump said renewed strikes are "highly unlikely" if negotiations progress on Iran's nuclear programme and the Strait of Hormuz, noting three aircraft carriers are stationed in the region. Iranian state media reported an oil tanker caught fire after hitting a naval mine east of the Strait of Hormuz, with the navy claiming the ship had identification systems off. An IRGC adviser warned of a "devastating and severe" response, as tensions follow US midterm elections that gave Democrats control of Congress.