Iran had been weighing the possibility of launching a missile strike on a Ukrainian seaport in response to a Ukrainian attack on an Iranian vessel in the Caspian Sea. However, intensive diplomatic efforts have so far helped to ease tensions and prevent further escalation. This was reported by The New York Times, citing statements from European and Iranian officials.

"Some sources said they expected Iran to fire a ballistic missile with a small warhead at Ukraine as a symbolic move that would cause limited damage. Other officials suggested that one of Ukraine’s Black Sea ports would likely be the intended target," the publication wrote.

At the same time, the newspaper emphasized that any Iranian missile strike on Ukrainian territory would represent a serious escalation and could trigger a broader conflict. Such a development would further strain relations between the two countries, which are already tense due to Iran’s partnership with Russia.

According to the outlet’s sources, Iranian officials indicated they hoped the confrontation would end after a retaliatory strike. Western officials, however, cautioned that predicting Ukraine’s response would be difficult.

Mehdi Rahmati, an analyst considered close to the Iranian government, noted that while some political figures in Iran have urged a retaliatory attack on Ukraine, others have advised restraint.

"Ukraine is neither a small nor insignificant country. It has combat experience and logistical backing from the United States and Europe. We stand to gain nothing by opening a new front in this war," he said.

Nevertheless, The New York Times underlined that it remains uncertain how long the current tensions can be contained.

Conflict Between Ukraine and Iran

Earlier, Tehran described the strike on its vessel in the Caspian Sea as an "act of aggression" and declared that it would defend its national interests and security. Iran’s Foreign Ministry accused Kyiv of attempting to widen the war.

Subsequently, Ukraine’s Acting Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha held a phone conversation with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi.

According to Araghchi, Sybiha assured him that the attack on the Iranian ship had been unintentional and that Ukraine was not seeking to escalate the situation. At the same time, he stressed that the damages caused should be compensated.