US and Iran trade threats as fears of renewed conflict grow

The US and Iran exchanged threats on Monday, with Iran's Revolutionary Guard warning of a "long-term war" and President Trump saying he was weighing options on whether to "blow the entire nation up," raising fears of renewed all-out conflict ahead of the UN General Assembly. Iran's IRGC spokesman said Tehran has prepared for a prolonged war with unused "strategic" weapons, while the country's military claimed control of the Strait of Hormuz and threatened continuous attacks on US bases and interests if struck again. Trump, who cut short a Camp David weekend, is reportedly considering a large-scale strike, economic blockade, or diplomatic deal. The escalation follows Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia on Saturday, targeting Riyadh and Aramco facilities, though Saudi defenses intercepted most projectiles. Trump said the US is in contact with the Houthis, who agreed not to go to war with Washington, and he rejected a Saudi request for direct military assistance.