Iran Warns of Regional War Expansion Ahead of Trump-Netanyahu Meeting

The Iranian army warned on July 26, 2026, that military conflict in West Asia will expand geographically if the United States continues air strikes against the Islamic republic. Army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia stated that Iranian operations already encompass the region, stretching from U.S. bases in Jordan to the countries along the Persian Gulf, and cited recent flare-ups between Saudi Arabia and Houthi rebels in the Bab al-Mandab Strait.

This warning comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to visit Washington on July 28, 2026, to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House. While Trump and Netanyahu launched a joint war against Iran in February 2026, their alliance has recently strained. The two leaders are currently divided over whether to maintain military pressure or pursue a diplomatic solution following the collapse of a U.S.-Iran ceasefire in April.