Iran Responds to US Show of Force

By Amir Daftari

Iran's top military commander has said that any threat to its national security would have dire consequences for the entire region, according to state media.

The warning comes after the U.S. staged a major regional show of force this week, deploying B-52 bombers over nine countries in the Middle East in a strategic display of military strength.

Newsweek has reached out to the U.S. Air Force for comment via email.

Why It Matters

The flyover, a key element of the U.S. deterrence strategy, underscores Washington's military resolve amid rising tensions. With growing instability and threats from Iran and its proxies, including Hamas and Hezbollah, the U.S. seeks to reinforce its dominance and demonstrate its readiness.

What to Know

The bomber task force mission featured midair refueling and live munitions drops at designated target ranges "in several partner nations," according to CENTCOM. U.S. F-15s, along with fighter jets from four regional allies, escorted the B-52s throughout the operation.

Iran Threatens Region

On Wednesday, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Bagheri warned that, "our armed forces are at the peak of their readiness."

"In the case of any mistake by the enemy, the security of the Zionist regime and those who participated in its equipment and operational planning will be put in danger." He added. Over the past year, Iran twice fired massive barrages of missiles and drones at Israel, in a spillover from the its war in the Gaza Strip and the fighting with Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Tensions between Iran and U.S. ally Israel are high. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at the weekend that, with U.S. President Donald Trump's support, his government would "finish the job" against Iran.

Trump has toughened sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program, but said he would rather a deal that stops Tehran acquiring nuclear weapons. Iran has formally rejected nuclear weapons. However, it has continued to advance its nuclear program, accelerating the enrichment of uranium to up to 60 percent purity. Israel is widely believed to have nuclear weapons.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, center, visits an exhibition of the latest achievements of the country's defense industry at his office compound as he is accompanied by Chief of the General Staff of Armed... More Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader/AP Photo

What Are People Saying

General Erik Kurilla, head of CENTCOM: "Bomber Task Force missions demonstrate US power projection capability, commitment to regional security, and ability to respond to any state or non-state actor seeking to broaden or escalate conflict in the CENTCOM region."

Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Iran Armed Forces: "If Iran's security is threatened, the security of the entire Southwest Asian region, the creators of insecurity, and their regional allies will be threatened," he cautioned.

What Happens Next

The U.S. continues to adjust its military posture in the region. Rotating aircraft carriers, deploying B-52s, and countering Iran-backed factions remain key priorities. With diplomatic efforts ongoing, Washington's dual strategy of military deterrence and its openness to engage diplomatically underscores its evolving role in the Middle East under the Trump administration.