Nabavian, a hardline member of Iran’s parliament, reacted sharply to remarks made by a senior U.S. official, interpreted by Tehran as a direct threat. Nabavian directed his message toward U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio.

“The U.S. Secretary of State has threatened Iran. In response, we say: Listen carefully, Rubio — don’t push your luck,” Nabavian said in remarks carried by Iranian media. “Before acting foolishly, make sure you’re ready to recover your soldiers’ corpses from the sea.”

The statement reflects growing hostility between the two nations, which have seen a series of confrontations in recent months across the Middle East. Iranian officials have repeatedly criticized U.S. military presence in the region and accused Washington of attempting to provoke conflict.

While it was unclear which specific comments by U.S. officials prompted Nabavian’s threat, American leaders have recently spoken out strongly against Iranian support for regional militias and attacks on U.S. interests. The Pentagon has also warned Tehran over its involvement in operations carried out by proxy groups in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen.

Nabavian’s warning underscores the fragile state of U.S.-Iran relations and raises fears of further military escalation. Analysts note that while such rhetoric is common from Iranian hardliners, the intensity of the language signals rising frustration within Iran’s political elite over perceived American aggression.

The U.S. has not formally responded to Nabavian’s comments, but State Department officials have emphasized Washington’s commitment to protecting its personnel and allies in the region.

This latest exchange comes amid a broader backdrop of diplomatic deadlock, with nuclear talks stalled and mutual accusations dominating the discourse. Observers warn that continued tit-for-tat threats could fuel miscalculations on both sides.

Whether the situation de-escalates or slides further into confrontation may depend on behind-the-scenes diplomacy — if any is still taking place.