Iran Calls US Dialogue 'Positive Step' Amid Warnings of 'Unimaginable' Response

Iran has characterized the United States' recent overtures for dialogue as a "positive step," as an Iranian delegation continues ongoing discussions in Doha with Qatari and Pakistani mediators. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi acknowledged receiving a letter from US Vice President JD Vance, viewing the US effort to broaden dialogue as constructive, though he reiterated that direct talks with American officials are not currently planned by Tehran. These diplomatic efforts in Qatar are reportedly addressing preliminary understandings on Iran's nuclear program, navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, and economic incentives.

Despite these diplomatic engagements, Iran's military leadership issued stern warnings to the US and Israel. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Ali Abdollahi cautioned that any new attack would be met with an "unimaginable," "geographically unrestricted," and "more severe" response. Abdollahi indicated that Iran has prepared an expanded list of potential US and Israeli targets, emphasizing that Iran would dictate the conflict's conclusion. This comes amidst heightened regional tensions and speculation about potential US military action following the upcoming midterm elections.