Dubai, 2 October, 2026 (Nosheen): Iran is preparing a broader and potentially stronger response if the United States resumes large-scale military attacks, while continuing diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation, according to Iranian sources. Three senior Iranian officials and an individual familiar with the discussions said senior commanders were reviewing plans that could expand potential targets beyond US-linked assets to countries supporting US military operations and possibly locations outside the Middle East. No final decision has been made, but Iranian officials said military planning had intensified as diplomatic efforts appeared to face significant obstacles. The developments follow months of conflict that began with US-Israeli attacks on February 28, followed by an April 8 ceasefire that ended a 40-day war, although sporadic hostilities have continued. Iranian officials are also reportedly weighing the economic and political consequences of a prolonged confrontation, particularly amid restrictions affecting the country’s oil exports and economy. Two Iranian officials said allied groups in Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq had been instructed to prepare for a possible coordinated response in the event of renewed large-scale US attacks. At the same time, Tehran has kept a channel for indirect negotiations open. During last week’s United Nations General Assembly in New York, Iran reportedly submitted a proposal through Qatari mediators that called for an end to fighting, the lifting of the US blockade on Iranian ports, the release of at least $12 billion in frozen Iranian funds and a waiver of oil sanctions. Iranian state media reported that a US response had been delivered through Qatar and was under review, although Iranian officials said major differences remained, including over Iran’s nuclear programme. Analysts cited by Reuters said the prospects for a diplomatic agreement remained uncertain. The conflict has reportedly caused thousands of civilian deaths, damaged Iran’s military capabilities and placed further pressure on its economy, while also affecting regional oil flows and global energy markets. Iranian leaders are additionally concerned about domestic stability amid economic difficulties and previous nationwide protests. Rights groups and UN investigators have reported arrests and alleged abuses during the conflict, while Iranian authorities have maintained tighter security measures.