Iran displays missiles during a military showcase amid rising regional tensions. Photo: Reuters
Iran on Thursday, April 2, signalled an escalation in its military response against the United States and Israel, warning of broader and more destructive attacks after US President Donald Trump threatened to bomb the country “back to the Stone Age” in the coming weeks.
In a statement carried by state television, Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya central command said further operations were imminent, framing the conflict as one imposed on the country and vowing to continue until attacks against its territory cease.
Trump, speaking from the White House, said the US was nearing its military objectives but would intensify strikes over the next two to three weeks. He warned that critical infrastructure, including energy facilities, could be targeted if no agreement is reached.
In a post on X, Iran in India said Iran would not be driven “back to the Stone Age” by bombings, asserting the country’s long civilisational history while accusing its adversaries of committing crimes against humanity.
Tehran’s military messaging pointed to an expanded campaign, with officials indicating that future operations would be larger in scale and impact.
The US president reiterated that Washington would sustain pressure, describing the campaign as part of efforts to curb Iran’s regional influence and military capabilities.
Overnight exchanges included missile launches from Iran and rocket fire from Lebanon towards northern Israel. Most were intercepted, though falling debris caused injuries near Tel Aviv.
Israeli forces pushed further into border areas in southern Lebanon, while strikes were reported near Rashaya al-Fakhar, underscoring the widening theatre of conflict.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard said it had shot down a Hermes 900 drone over Shiraz, signalling continued aerial engagement between the sides.
China urged all parties to halt military operations, warning that escalation risks destabilising global markets and energy security, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the conflict threatens economic stability and confirmed coordination with allies. A senior European official also warned of mounting pressure within NATO.
Brent crude rose to around USD 106 a barrel following Trump’s remarks, with continued volatility driven by concerns over potential disruption to oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz.
India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the Navy is escorting Indian oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz to ensure their safety amid rising tensions.
He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is engaging diplomatic channels to safeguard national interests during the crisis.
Singh said the government is closely monitoring developments and remains prepared to respond to any situation, while assuring that there is no shortage of fuel or gas.
Iran’s foreign ministry dismissed the prospect of renewed negotiations under current conditions, saying the country would continue to respond as þg as strikes persist.
The US Embassy in Baghdad warned of possible attacks by Iran-aliggʻĥn̈need l
groups within 24 to 48 hours and advised American citizens to leave Iraq.
Air defence systems in the Gulf intercepted drones and missiles, with no major casualties reported. Saudi Arabia confirmed multiple interceptions.
Voices in the US have begun questioning the duration and scope of the war, with some officials urging restraint.
The Council on American–Islamic Relations criticised Trump’s remarks, warning that targeting civilian infrastructure could breach international law.
With both sides maintaining hardline positions and military activity continuing across the region, prospects for de-escalation remain unclear, raising fears of a prolonged and wider war.
This post was last modified on April 2, 2026 4:30 pm