Iran Issues Threat of New Weapons Amid Rising Tensions with the U.S.

Iran warned on September 21, 2026, that it would deploy "new weapons with new capabilities" if the United States initiated a new military assault. Hossein Mohebbi, a spokesman for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, stated that the country would alter both its weaponry and the geographical scope of the conflict if provoked, according to the semiofficial Fars news agency. Mohebbi did not specify the nature of the new weapons or potential targets. This warning follows remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump, who indicated he might be open to a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly. The ongoing conflict has led to Iran blocking the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on oil infrastructure, impacting global oil prices and contributing to inflation. Trump described his options regarding the conflict as ranging from military action to economic pressure or negotiation. He expressed uncertainty about the timeline for resolving the conflict, suggesting it may extend beyond the upcoming midterm elections. Oil prices fell to their lowest levels in over a week amid speculation of renewed diplomatic talks. Additionally, Trump mentioned ongoing communication with the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, who reportedly agreed to avoid conflict with the U.S. The Houthis escalated violence over the weekend, launching attacks on sites in Riyadh and an Aramco facility. The situation remains dynamic, with experts cautioning against ruling out any potential U.S. military involvement in support of Saudi Arabia against the Houthis. Shipping data indicated a decrease in vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, while the Yemeni Health and Environment Ministry accused Saudi Arabia of airstrikes that targeted telecommunications infrastructure, resulting in casualties among workers.