• Iran declares it will respond to any US attack as an 'all-out war.'
• The US is deploying significant military assets, including an aircraft carrier strike group, to the region.
• Amid domestic unrest, Iran's military is on high alert, prepared for confrontation.

Iran has issued a strong warning, stating it will treat any U.S. military action "as an all-out war against us." This declaration comes as the U.S. military prepares to deploy a significant force, including an aircraft carrier strike group, to the Middle East in the coming days. A senior Iranian official noted, "This military buildup - we hope it is not intended for real confrontation - but our military is ready for the worst-case scenario. This is why everything is on high alert in Iran," according to Reuters, Indiatimes, and South China Morning Post.

The U.S. has confirmed the deployment of a "massive fleet," including the USS Abraham Lincoln, to increase its military presence in the region, which has raised concerns in Tehran. President Donald Trump emphasized that although they are monitoring Iran closely, he hopes military action will not be necessary. "If the Americans violate Iran's sovereignty and territorial integrity, we will respond,” the Iranian official warned, reflecting the heightened tensions that could escalate due to the unrest within Iran, according to Reuters, Indiatimes, and South China Morning Post.

Amid ongoing protests against the Iranian government, which have resulted in significant violence, Iran's military is reportedly at its highest state of readiness. Analysts have pointed out that thousands of US military aircraft and personnel are arriving in the region, mirroring past deployments associated with high tensions. The Iranian official's warning includes the possibility that if the U.S. attacks, "all US interests, bases, and centres of influence” would become legitimate targets. This comes as Iran faces internal dissent, with the military framed as being prepared for any eventuality, according to Reuters, Indiatimes, and South China Morning Post.