Iran Warns of War 'Beyond the Region' as U.S. Maintains Strike Threats

Tensions between Washington and Tehran escalated Wednesday as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a direct warning that further military aggression would expand the conflict beyond the Middle East. Iranian officials stated they have learned from previous strikes and have prepared 'surprises' for any future engagement, framing the rhetoric as a response to continued U.S. military pressure. In Washington, Vice President JD Vance reaffirmed the Trump administration's red line, stating that Iran will never be permitted to possess a nuclear weapon. While Vance noted that the administration is not currently seeking regime change or an invasion, he described the U.S. military as 'locked and loaded' should diplomatic negotiations collapse. President Trump underscored this position, claiming he was within an hour of authorizing fresh strikes and has instructed military leadership to remain ready for a large-scale assault. Domestically, the Senate moved to check executive power, advancing a bipartisan measure to limit unilateral presidential war powers concerning Iran. On the maritime front, CENTCOM confirmed that the blockade of Iranian ports remains active, with 89 commercial vessels redirected to date. While diplomatic channels remain open, neither side has signaled a breakthrough on the central issue of Iran's nuclear capabilities.