THE President of Iran Ebrahim Raishi stated today that his country she will not start a war but will “respond strongly” to anyone who bullies her.

Raisi’s comments come after days of speculation over how Washington might retaliate after the deaths of three American soldiers, who were killed in an attack on their base in Jordan by an Iranian-backed group.

CBS News, citing US officials, reported yesterday that the US had approved plans for multi-day strikes in Iraq and Syria against multiple targets.

“We will not start any war, but anyone who wants to bully us will receive a strong response,” Raisi said in a televised speech.

“Before, when they (the Americans) wanted to talk to us, they said the military option is on the table. Now they say they have no intention of conflict with Iran,” Raisi said.

“The military power of the Islamic Republic in the region is not and has never been a threat to any country. Instead, it ensures security that countries in the region can rely on and trust,” Raisi added.