Khamenei Warns of a “Far Greater Strike”

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ramped up his rhetoric on Wednesday, praising Iranians for standing up to “the power of the United States and its dog on a leash, the Zionist regime.” Speaking on state television, he boasted that last month’s attack on America’s Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar was only a preview and cautioned that Tehran could deliver an “even bigger blow” to the U.S. and its allies.

Missile Arsenal Still a Threat Despite Recent Strikes

U.S. assessments suggest Israel’s June strikes on Iran’s Fordow facility and related sites may have delayed Tehran’s nuclear program by up to two years. Yet analysts say Iran’s missile and drone forces remain formidable. Jerusalem believes the Islamic Republic still holds roughly 1,500 medium‑range ballistic missiles and retains half its launch capacity. Solid‑fuel short‑range rockets, in particular, remain highly accurate—leaving U.S. bases in the region vulnerable if hostilities flare again.

Snapback Sanctions Under Consideration

Western capitals are discussing whether to trigger U.N. “snapback” sanctions should nuclear talks fail to produce results by summer’s end. European members of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) say re‑imposing penalties remains an option if no verifiable deal emerges.

Washington Shows No Urgency

President Donald Trump insists he prefers diplomacy over force but told reporters Tuesday that he is “in no rush to talk,” even as the clock winds down. Security specialists caution that restoring sanctions could prompt Iran to quit the Nuclear Non‑Proliferation Treaty altogether, raising global stakes.

Berlin Urges a Verified Diplomatic Solution

Germany’s Foreign Ministry underscored the need for a rigorous, lasting agreement that satisfies international security concerns. It reaffirmed close coordination with France and the U.K., the so‑called E3, and warned that snapback measures will stay on the table if negotiations stall.

What Lies Ahead

With Iran threatening escalation, Western powers weighing punitive options, and Washington signaling patience, the coming weeks could determine whether the nuclear standoff inches toward compromise—or spirals into deeper confrontation.