Iran-backed armed group warns of ‘long war’ if US strikes Tehran

February 28, 2026

TL;DR

Kataib Hezbollah has ordered its fighters to prepare for a potential "long war of attrition" in response to US strikes on Tehran.
The group warns that the US would suffer heavy losses if it starts a conflict in the region.
This warning follows the conclusion of third round of indirect US-Iran nuclear talks in Geneva without a deal.
The US has deployed additional warships and aircraft to the Middle East.
An Iraqi armed faction commander stated that any strike on Iran "directly threatens us" and they would be "less restrained" than in previous conflicts.
Militias linked to Iran in Iraq and Syria have previously launched rockets and drones at US bases.
A Hezbollah representative indicated the Lebanese group would not intervene in "limited" US strikes on Iran but would consider targeting Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei a "red line."
Saudi daily Asharq Al-Awsat reported that the Israel Defense Forces are readying preemptive strikes on Iran-backed groups in Lebanon, Yemen, and Iraq.
The US has amassed its largest military presence in the Middle East since before the 2003 Iraq invasion.
President Trump demands Tehran curtail its uranium enrichment and missile programs, while Tehran maintains its program is peaceful.
Trump has threatened to bomb Iran if it does not accept a new agreement, though he prefers a diplomatic solution.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated "very good progress" was made in Geneva talks but insisted Washington must abandon "excessive demands."

Continue reading the original article