Iran warns of strikes on U.S. bases as tensions rise and war costs climb

Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters issued a warning that any mistake by the United States would be met with "continuous, effective and painful strikes" against U.S. bases and interests across the Middle East, without limitation. The statement followed reports that Washington is preparing renewed actions against Tehran with support from regional partners.

President Donald Trump cut short a weekend stay at Camp David and returned to the White House amid the heightened tension. The White House did not provide a reason for the early departure. The U.S. State Department simultaneously issued a security alert for Americans in the region, citing the risk of rapid escalation between Saudi Arabia and Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen and noting possible travel disruptions at more than a dozen embassies.

In related diplomatic activity, CIA Director John Ratcliffe met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sissi, who expressed backing for a diplomatic solution to the Iranian crisis and rejected aggression toward Arab states. Egypt also urged full implementation of the second phase of the U.S. cease-fire plan for Gaza.

The financial burden of the conflict continues to rise. U.S. Central Command estimated the war's cost at $43.6 billion as of early September, up from $38 billion reported through August, with monthly expenses projected at roughly $3 billion depending on the intensity of operations.

Separately, Saudi Arabia confirmed that Yemen's Houthi rebels attempted a ballistic missile attack on Riyadh, which was intercepted without reported casualties. Arab and Muslim nations condemned the attempt, describing it as a threat to regional security and a violation of international law.