An Iranian parliament member revealed internal tensions within Tehran's political elite regarding military actions against US naval assets. Ahmad Bakhshayesh Ardestani stated that while military actions are currently restrained, Iran has warned the US of severe retaliation if Iranian vessels are attacked. Reports suggest IRGC commander General Ahmad Vahidi is gaining influence in security decisions amid the absence of Ayatollah Khamenei, who has not been seen publicly since February. Ardestani emphasized that the regime's stability is not threatened by leadership absences and discussed public opinion dynamics in Iran. He argued that US military interventions could backfire, igniting Iranian resistance, and suggested that diplomatic resolutions are more likely than escalation. Ongoing negotiations mediated by Pakistan aim to address various issues, including Iran's nuclear program and sanctions relief.