Amid rising tensions in the Middle East following U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance has issued a direct and urgent warning to Tehran: “If Iran hits us, they’ll face overwhelming force.”
In a series of statements made over the weekend and reiterated today, Vance confirmed that American forces have been placed in a “maximum defensive posture” across the region. The move comes in anticipation of potential retaliatory attacks by Iranian military or proxy groups operating in Iraq and Syria.
“We are not at war with the Iranian people, but we are at war with Iran’s nuclear ambitions,” Vance said during an interview on NBC’s Meet the Press. “If the Iranians attack us, they will be met with overwhelming force. We are prepared.”
The Vice President also made a heartfelt appeal to the American public, urging citizens to pray for U.S. troops stationed in harm’s way.
“Our troops are under threat. They are the best in the world, and we must stand with them — in resolve and in prayer.”
The comments follow the U.S.-led Operation Midnight Hammer, in which American airpower targeted Iran’s underground nuclear facilities in Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan. While the Pentagon claims the strikes were a strategic necessity aimed at halting Iran’s suspected nuclear weapons development, Iranian officials have labeled them as an act of aggression.
Reports from the region indicate that Iran-backed militia groups in Iraq and Syria may be preparing counterattacks on U.S. bases — a threat U.S. officials say they are closely monitoring.
Vance’s remarks signal a no-tolerance policy from the U.S. administration, which has warned of swift and crushing retaliation should Iran or its allies initiate direct attacks.
As world leaders urge restraint, the situation remains volatile. For now, American forces remain vigilant, and Washington’s message is clear: The U.S. will not hesitate to defend its forces and interests.
