Iran Warns: Any US Attack, Even Limited, Would Be 'Act of Aggression' Triggering Ferocious Response

 Iran's Foreign Ministry has issued a stark warning that any military action by the United States against the Islamic Republic, including so-called "limited strikes," would be treated as a full act of aggression and met with a fierce retaliatory response under the country's right to self-defense.

The statement comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran over Iran's nuclear program, as U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly indicated he is considering limited military strikes if ongoing negotiations fail to produce a meaningful agreement.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei addressed the issue during a press briefing in Tehran on Monday, dismissing the notion of a "limited" strike. "There is no limited strike," Baqaei said. "An act of aggression would be regarded as an act of aggression. Period. And any state would react to an act of aggression as part of its inherent right of self-defence ferociously, so that's what we would do."

The remarks were made in direct response to Trump's recent comments, where he weighed the option of targeted strikes to pressure Iran into curbing its nuclear activities and ballistic missile capabilities. The U.S. has significantly bolstered its military presence in the Middle East in recent weeks, including the deployment of aircraft carriers, fighter jets, and other assets, heightening fears of potential confrontation.

Iran has repeatedly emphasized its preference for diplomacy, with officials noting "encouraging signals" from indirect talks mediated through Oman and held in Geneva and Switzerland. A third round of negotiations is scheduled for Thursday. However, Tehran has also denied claims of an interim deal and insisted it will not succumb to threats or military pressure.

President Masoud Pezeshkian has voiced cautious optimism about the talks while stressing that Iran is prepared for any scenario and will not bow to coercion. Iranian officials have described the U.S. military buildup as "unnecessary and unhelpful," arguing that a diplomatic solution remains within reach if Washington engages in good faith.

The exchange underscores the fragile state of U.S.-Iran relations, with both sides trading warnings as deadlines loom. Trump has previously set a 10- to 15-day window for a deal, cautioning that failure could lead to "really bad things." Iran, in turn, has vowed decisive and proportionate retaliation against any aggression, including potential threats to U.S. bases in the region or disruptions in key waterways like the Strait of Hormuz.