Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a grave warning on June 18, stating that any U.S. military intervention in its escalating conflict with Israel would inflict “irreparable damage,” intensifying fears of full-scale war and challenging Washington’s strategy.
At a Glance
- Khamenei cautioned that a U.S. military strike alongside Israel could cause “irreparable” damage to America
- Iran’s “no war, no peace” posture is shifting as Israel’s airstrikes destroy strategic Iranian and proxy sites
- The U.S. and Israel have hit key Iranian nuclear and IRGC facilities; Iran retaliated with missile and drone strikes
- Analysts report Khamenei relocated to a Tehran bunker amid intensified threats and Israeli assaults
- Supreme Leader’s threat followed by Iran’s warning of U.S. bases and potential all‑out war
Supreme Leader Raises the Stakes
On June 18, Khamenei warned via official channels that any U.S. entry into the conflict would provoke catastrophic consequences. “The harm the U.S. will suffer will definitely be irreparable,” he said, as reported by Time. The statement came after former President Trump threatened Iran, claiming awareness of Khamenei’s hideout yet deferring direct action.
No War, No Peace Strategy Collapses
Iran’s historically cautious “no war, no peace” stance has unraveled as Israeli forces, supported by U.S. intelligence, bombed multiple Iranian nuclear and IRGC command sites. Analysts say this surge in direct confrontation dismantles Iran’s proxy network and exposes core vulnerabilities, according to Financial Times.
Watch a report: US official warns of unprecedented WWIII risk as Iran‑Israel conflict intensifies
Bunker to Battlefield
Khamenei reportedly sheltered in an underground bunker near Tehran amid the strikes, reflecting heightened security concerns. Israeli strikes have killed senior IRGC commanders, including Hossein Salami, bolstering influence within hardline military factions, as noted by The Wall Street Journal.
Threats Escalate Beyond the Region
Iranian commanders warned they might mine the Strait of Hormuz or strike U.S. bases across the Middle East. Foreign Ministry spokesman Baghaei echoed Khamenei, stating any U.S. military involvement could spark an all-out war, according to AP News.
What Comes Next
Khamenei’s ultimatum marks a turning point—if America intervenes, the conflict could spiral far beyond the region. Diplomats stress prevention, yet both Israel and Iran continue aggressive posture. With formal negotiations stalled, public pressure mounts for restraint to avert World War III.
