Trump hopeful of Iran deal after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warns of regional war

Tensions between the US and Iran remain high after Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that a US attack would trigger a regional war. Khamenei likened recent anti-government protests in Iran to a "coup" and accused rioters of attacking police, government centers, and religious sites. In response, US President Donald Trump stated he remained hopeful of reaching a deal with Iran, despite the escalating rhetoric. Trump's comments follow his previous threats of military action and the deployment of a carrier group to the Middle East after Iran's deadly response to the protests. The situation remains volatile as both countries trade warnings amid ongoing regional instability.

Iran's Supreme Leader issued a warning on Sunday that any attack by the United States would trigger a regional war in the Middle East. The statement escalates tensions amid threats from then-President Trump to potentially strike Iran due to its crackdown on recent protests. Adding to the heightened situation, Iran is planning a military drill in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping lane for oil. The drill, scheduled for Sunday and Monday, may involve live fire exercises in the area through which a significant portion of the world's traded oil passes.