'Iran in full-scale war with US': President Pezeshkian says Tehran won't back down

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday declared that the country is in a "full-scale war" with the United States, saying Tehran will not retreat from its rights or principles as hostilities between the two countries continue to intensify.

In a public address, Pezeshkian urged Iranians to brace for the consequences of the conflict, saying resistance against the United States would inevitably come at a cost.

"The reality is that today the Islamic Republic of Iran is engaged in a full-scale war," Pezeshkian said. "We must be realistic and accept the natural consequences of this resistance."

He also argued that military action had failed to force Iran into submission.

"Today's war is not just about missiles, and the enemy has realised its inability to force our people to surrender through military attack," he said.

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US launches ninth consecutive night of strikes

Pezeshkian's remarks came as the United States carried out a ninth straight night of military strikes on Iranian targets.

According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the operation targeted Iranian military command centres, air defence and coastal surveillance sites, missile and drone launch facilities, maritime assets and communications networks.

Explosions were reported in at least five Iranian cities, including the northwestern city of Tabriz and two strategically important port cities, shortly after CENTCOM announced the strikes.

Iran retaliates with attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait

In response, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait.

Air raid sirens sounded across both Gulf states, with authorities urging residents to seek shelter. Kuwait said its air defence systems intercepted several incoming missiles and drones but accused Iran of causing fires and significant damage to power, water and oil infrastructure. The attacks drew condemnation from several Gulf governments.

Strait of Hormuz tensions flare again

The renewed fighting comes weeks after a temporary ceasefire brokered in Switzerland in June collapsed, reigniting hostilities between Washington and Tehran.

As the conflict resumed, oil prices climbed to their highest level in a month amid growing concerns over energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest oil shipping routes.

Iran has reinstated its blockade of the strategic waterway, while the United States has responded by resuming its naval blockade of Iranian ports, further escalating tensions in the region.