Iran’s top national security official, Ali Larijani, publicly claimed that what he described as “members of Epstein’s network” are planning a false flag attack reminiscent of the September 11, 2001, attacks and intend to blame Tehran for it. Larijani’s remarks appeared on social media as tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel continue to escalate.
Larijani said Iran “fundamentally opposes such terrorist schemes and has no war with the American people.” He framed Tehran’s position as defensive rather than aggressive, attributing regional insecurity to what he described as U.S. and Israeli military actions.
It’s important to note that Iranian officials have not provided publicly verifiable evidence supporting the claim about such an external plot. Independent media analysis suggests the allegation should be viewed cautiously as a claim amid ongoing propaganda and information warfare between states involved in the conflict.
Trump Says No Deal Yet With Iran, Vows to Keep Strait of Hormuz Open
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated that he is not ready to agree to a deal to end the war with Iran, stating that “terms aren’t good enough yet,” even if Tehran were willing to end hostilities. Trump told NBC News that any agreement would need Iran to commit to abandoning nuclear ambitions.
Trump emphasized the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, a critical maritime passage for global energy supplies. He described Iran’s offensive options — such as mining the strait or using short‑range missiles — as limited but vowed further military pressure if Iran continues actions that disrupt maritime traffic.
U.S. Conducts Precision Strikes in the Ongoing Conflict
The U.S. Central Command announced that it had carried out “precision strikes” on at least 90 Iranian military targets, stating it aimed to preserve energy infrastructure while degrading Tehran’s military capabilities. Trump said he ordered strikes without damaging key energy lines to avoid long‑term reconstruction delays.
Other reporting has confirmed that U.S. forces struck Kharg Island, a major Iranian oil export hub, destroying military facilities while sparing the oil infrastructure — though Trump warned it could be targeted if Iran continues to threaten shipping through the Gulf.
Broader Context: Conflict Escalation and Regional Tensions
The claim about a false‑flag plot comes against a backdrop of intensifying military engagements:
- The U.S.‑Israel military campaign against Iranian military targets has been ongoing, with civilian and military regional impacts.
- The U.S. Central Command issued safety warnings for Iranian civilians amid the conflict.
- European forces and regional actors are responding variably to calls for collaboration or restraint.
- High‑level figures like Senator Lindsey Graham are publicly praising U.S. military actions against Iran’s strategic positions.
- The war has drawn in other actors, with reported casualties beyond Iran alone.
What This Means
- Iran’s accusation about a planned false flag attack is a high‑profile claim but lacks publicly verifiable evidence so far. It reflects how both sides are engaged in information operations amid a larger military conflict.
- The U.S. insists it is focused on military and strategic goals, including preventing Iranian nuclear ambitions and keeping global maritime routes open.
- The situation remains volatile and rapidly evolving, with ongoing strikes, diplomatic pressures, and global economic impacts.
