Iran warns of retaliation as Trump vows to prevent nuclear weapon development

Last updated: October 23, 2026 | 07:33

Guards spokesperson Hossein Mohebi told state media that they have activated their "decentralised mosaic defence" doctrine: no longer would they respond only proportionately if Washington restarted the war, but would “take the initiative to launch attacks.”

US President Donald Trump has hinted going "a little bit further" in a potential re-escalation of the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, with a single stated aim — preventing the regime from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

Iran's response: a vow of overwhelming retaliation involving the wider region.

Speaking to reporters at the White House before departing for Iowa on Thursday, Trump said: “This should have been done a long time ago by other presidents.…