Iran's supreme leader says U.S. attack could spark regional war

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that a U.S. attack could trigger a regional war; a U.S. carrier group is reported nearby and Iran has scheduled live-fire drills in the Strait of Hormuz for Sunday and Monday.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that a U.S. attack on Iran would lead to a "regional war," remarks carried by Tasnim as tensions rose after widespread protests and a government crackdown. President Trump has made statements about possible military responses while a U.S. carrier group is reported in international waters off Iran. Iran announced live-fire drills in the Strait of Hormuz. Authorities have restricted internet access amid the unrest. Key developments: - Khamenei said a U.S. attack would provoke a regional war and accused the U.S. of seeking Iran's resources. - President Trump has signaled possible military intervention and said U.S. forces are in the region. - The USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group is reported in international waters near Iran. - Iran scheduled live-fire drills in the Strait of Hormuz for Sunday and Monday; U.S. Central Command warned against threatening U.S. ships or disrupting commercial traffic. - Nationwide protests began Dec. 28 and have been met with a government crackdown and restrictions on internet access. Summary: Khamenei's public warning and the reported U.S. carrier presence have contributed to heightened regional tensions. The next scheduled development is Iran's live-fire drills in the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday and Monday; further outcomes remain undetermined at this time.