Iran readied three huge strikes on Ukraine but 'pulled out last minute'

Iran could have sparked a huge escalation.By Berk Uyal, Live News Content Editor/Reporter 15:31, Tue, Aug 4, 2026 Updated: 15:47, Tue, Aug 4, 2026 Iran (Image: Getty)Iran has claimed it was poised to strike Ukraine before an apology from Kyiv led to the attack being cancelled. Mohsen Rezaei, a senior adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader, alleged the country's armed forces had been preparing to target three sites in retaliation for a strike on a ship in the Caspian Sea that Tehran says was transporting military cargo.Speaking to Iranian state television, Rezaei said: "We were set to strike three sites in Ukraine, but cancelled the attack after Ukraine's apology." He did not provide any evidence to support the claim or identify the alleged targets, and Ukraine has not publicly commented on the remarks. The comments followed the July 25 attack, which Iranian officials say killed one crew member and destroyed the vessel. Get the latest news from around the world and more Invalid emailWe use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at a...