Iran Claims U.S. Hit Bushehr Nuclear Plant, Warns of Retaliation While Keeping Diplomacy Open

Hindustan TimesIran declared that U.S. strikes targeted the Bushehr nuclear facility, a significant escalation that prompted warnings of retaliation against American military bases in the region. Tehran separately warned Israel that any strike on Iranian infrastructure would trigger a direct response. Despite the bellicose statements, Iranian officials confirmed diplomatic channels with Washington remain open, suggesting the regime is calibrating its rhetoric to avoid full escalation. The dual posture — threatening force while keeping talks alive — reflects Iran's effort to manage domestic political pressure while negotiating from a position of strength.