Iran Escalates Military Threats Ahead of US Midterm Elections

A day before the US midterm elections, Iran is intensifying its military threats, while China is increasing its diplomatic involvement in efforts to prevent another war. The front pages of several major Iranian newspapers on Monday focused on preparations for potential strikes, the deployment of new weapons, and the possibility of expanding the conflict into additional regions.

The Iranian newspaper Hamshahri published the headline “Ready to Carry Out the Order,” accompanied by images of military commanders and missiles. According to the report, Iranian military commanders have responded to a call from the country's leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, and are updating their lists of potential targets while preparing for a rapid military response “with no geographic limits.”

Another newspaper, Javan, referred to participants in the negotiations as “the mentally ill of the negotiating table,” while threatening to deliver “terrifying blows with new weapons.”

Meanwhile, Kayhan highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz and its potential influence on the US elections and European countries. The newspaper also claimed that Democrats were using the Epstein affair against President Donald Trump.

A spokesman for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was quoted as announcing the “identification of new targets — and planning of operations in new geographic arenas.”

Iranian reports also referred to missiles with a range of approximately 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometers), potentially capable of reaching American military bases, alongside a declaration signaling “the end of the 'hit and run' dream.”

As Tehran escalates its rhetoric, diplomatic efforts involving China appear to be gaining momentum.

According to a report by the Lebanese television network Al-Mayadeen, Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq discussed economic and security guarantees during a visit to China.

A source cited by the network claimed that Oman had been excluded from a Pakistani-Qatari mediation initiative following American concerns about its close relationship with Iran. However, Oman reportedly helped establish a separate diplomatic channel involving direct Chinese engagement with Tehran.

Beijing has announced that its special envoy, Zhai Jun, will visit Iran, Oman, and Saudi Arabia as part of its diplomatic efforts.

China's foreign minister also met with a senior Iranian security official, expressed support for Iran's sovereignty, and called for a diplomatic resolution to the tensions.

Despite these efforts, concerns about a renewed military confrontation remain high among regional officials.

A source in the United Arab Emirates told Israel's Kan News on Monday morning, “We are realistic, and it looks like the confrontation is on the way.”

According to the source, Iran remains committed to its nuclear ambitions, while any last-minute concession by Tehran would likely be viewed as an attempt to buy more time rather than a genuine change in policy.