Iran FM: US War Aims Failed, Resistance Continues

Iran’s Foreign Minister Asserts US War Goals Unmet Amidst Escalating Regional Tensions

In an exclusive interview, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, directly addressed the ongoing conflict with the United States, asserting that American objectives for a swift and decisive victory have failed. The remarks come as Iran faces accusations of striking neighboring countries and as the Pentagon claims significant gains against Iranian military assets. Araghchi, speaking from Tehran, vehemently denied attacking civilian targets in Muslim nations, attributing strikes to “American targets and American bases” located within those territories, while acknowledging the possibility of “collateral damages” in what he described as a “war of choice by the United States.”

Accusations of Regional Strikes Denied

The interview touched upon recent incidents where Iran has been accused of drone and missile attacks on its neighbors. Specifically, an airport attack in Azerbaijan, which injured four people and was labeled “Iranian terrorist attacks” by Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister, was addressed. Araghchi, however, denied any Iranian involvement, stating, “Our military has denied firing any missile to either Turkey or Azerbaijan.” He added that while investigating the incidents, there is “no reason why we should fire… a missile to Turkey, which is a good neighbor of us.” This denial contrasts with reports of video evidence and statements from NATO regarding a missile incident in Turkey’s airspace.

Pentagon Claims Decisive Victory, Iran Disagrees

The Iranian Foreign Minister’s statements directly challenged the Pentagon’s narrative of a decisive American victory. US officials have claimed that ballistic missile attacks have decreased by 90% and drone attacks by 83% since the conflict began, with President Trump boasting about the military’s ability to neutralize launchers within minutes. Araghchi countered these claims, stating, “Six days after the war, it is clear that the U.S. has failed to achieve its main goal, which was clean, rapid victory.” He argued that the system remains functional, commanders have been replaced, and the process for selecting a new Supreme Leader is proceeding according to constitutional procedures, suggesting a resilience that belies claims of a crushing defeat.

“Well, I think, you know, six days after the war, it is clear that the U.S. has failed to achieve its main goal, which was clean, rapid victory. They failed to achieve that.”

Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister

The Concept of ‘Winning’ in the Current Conflict

When pressed on what constitutes a victory for Iran, Araghchi articulated a view centered on resistance rather than outright military triumph. “There is no winner in this war. Our win is to be able to resist against, you know, their goals and this is what we have done so far,” he explained. He also indicated that Iran is not seeking a ceasefire and sees no reason to negotiate with the US, citing past experiences where negotiations were followed by attacks. The question of succession for the Supreme Leader was also raised, with Araghchi acknowledging rumors but deferring to the Assembly of Experts for the official selection process.

Sinking of Training Ship Deemed a ‘War Crime’

The interview also addressed the sinking of an Iranian naval training ship in the Indian Ocean, an incident that resulted in dozens of casualties. Araghchi characterized the attack, reportedly carried out by a US submarine, as a “war crime.” He emphasized that the vessel was unarmed and participating in a joint exercise with the Indian Navy, arguing that attacking such a ship was an act against training officers and sailors. He further stated, “Mark my words, the U.S. will come to bitterly regret the precedent it has set.”

Domestic Dissent and Internet Access

The conversation shifted to the internal situation within Iran, including reports of crackdowns on protests and subsequent Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian internal security forces. An anonymous Iranian citizen expressed exhilaration over the strikes, stating, “Finally, finally, someone stood to these nasty people who just machine gun empty-handed protesters.” However, this individual also voiced fears that the strikes might cease too soon, allowing the regime to regain control and retaliate against dissenters. Regarding the reported internet shutdowns within Iran, Araghchi claimed, “This is not the case,” asserting that most Iranians have access to social networks, though acknowledging that access may be restricted in some cases “for security reasons.”

Iran’s Stance on Potential US Invasion

Despite the ongoing hostilities and the US not ruling out ground troops, Araghchi expressed confidence in Iran’s ability to repel a potential invasion. “No, we are waiting for them,” he stated when asked about the fear of a US invasion. He elaborated, “Yes, because we’re confident we can confront them and that would be a big disaster for them.” His message to President Trump was clear: “Their plan A to achieve clean, rapid victory in Iran has failed. I’m sure the plan B will be even bigger failure. So there is no way that they can win this war. As long as it takes, we resist. So they better to stop this war and stop killing our people.”

Looking Ahead

The interview concludes with Iran’s Foreign Minister asserting a long-term commitment to resistance against perceived US aggression. The dynamic between Iran’s defiant stance and the Pentagon’s claims of battlefield success will be critical to monitor. Furthermore, the regional implications of the alleged Iranian strikes and the internal pressures stemming from domestic dissent remain key factors shaping the ongoing conflict. The international community watches closely to see if diplomatic avenues can be pursued amidst the escalating rhetoric and military actions.

Source: Exclusive interview with Iran’s foreign minister (YouTube)