Iran Vows Fierce Resistance Amidst War, Dismisses US Victory Claims

Iran’s Top Diplomat Affirms System Stability Amidst War and Leadership Transition

TEHRAN – In an exclusive interview with NBC News, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi addressed the ongoing conflict and the nation’s internal affairs, asserting that the Iranian system is functioning effectively despite the loss of its Supreme Leader. “The system is working very well,” Araghchi stated, explaining that a council is temporarily fulfilling the duties of the Supreme Leader as per the constitution, while a process to select a successor is underway. He acknowledged the widespread rumors regarding the next Supreme Leader, including speculation about Ayatollah Khamenei’s son, but emphasized that the Assembly of Experts, elected by the people, will make the final decision. Araghchi noted that the selection process might take longer than usual due to the ongoing war and security measures.

Iran Vows Retaliation After Deadly Training Ship Incident

The interview turned to a recent incident where an Iranian naval training ship sank in the Indian Ocean, resulting in the deaths of dozens of sailors. Araghchi described the vessel as unarmed and on a training mission invited by the Indian Navy. He condemned the attack as a “war crime” and issued a stern warning: “Mark my words, the US will come to bitterly regret the precedent it has set.” He argued that attacking an unarmed ship is against international law and damages the concept of the law of the seas, setting a dangerous precedent.

Dismissing US Claims of Victory, Iran Highlights Resistance

Responding to U.S. claims of significant success in the conflict, including an alleged 80% drop in Iranian ballistic missile attacks and over 2,000 targets hit, Araghchi dismissed these assertions as attempts to justify the U.S. “failed” objectives. “It is clear that the US has failed to achieve its main goal, which was clean, rapid victory,” he stated. Araghchi acknowledged that Iran has suffered attacks on its military installations and leadership, but countered that Iran has also successfully targeted American assets and bases in the region. He defined Iran’s victory not as outright conquest, but as the ability to “resist against their illegal goals.”

“Our win is to be able to resist against their illegal goals, and this is what we have done so far. So they have failed to achieve their goals, and we have been able to resist against them, to stand against the most powerful army of the world as they claim together with Israelis…” Abbas Araghchi, Iranian Foreign Minister

Iran Denies Attacking Neighbors, Cites Targeting of US Assets

Araghchi vehemently denied that Iran has attacked its Arab neighbors or Muslim countries, clarifying that Iran’s targets have been American bases and installations located on the territories of these nations. He stated that Iran has communicated this distinction to its neighbors, assuring them that they are not being targeted. When questioned about civilian casualties and damage to non-military sites like hotels and apartments, Araghchi acknowledged the possibility of “collateral damages,” a common occurrence in war, drawing a parallel to Israeli actions in Gaza. He reiterated that Iran had warned the region and the U.S. administration of potential consequences if attacked.

NATO Missile Incident Under Investigation, Iran Claims No Hostile Intent

Regarding a reported incident where NATO claimed to have shot down an Iranian missile in Turkish airspace, Araghchi stated that Iran’s military has denied firing any missile towards Turkey. He indicated that the matter is under investigation, suggesting possibilities of misidentification or external factors, but reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to good neighborly relations and no intention to attack Turkey or other neighbors. However, he reiterated the focus on targeting American bases and installations.

Iran Prepared for Prolonged Conflict, Rejects Ceasefire Without Guarantees

The Foreign Minister emphasized that Iran is prepared to defend itself for as long as necessary, viewing its actions as legitimate self-defense. He asserted that while damages have occurred on both sides, Iran is defending its dignity, independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, stating, “We pay any price needed to protect our sovereignty and our territorial integrity and our dignity.” Araghchi clarified Iran’s stance on a ceasefire, stating that Iran is not seeking one and will not accept it unless the other side accepts responsibility for damages and guarantees that such aggression will not be repeated. He rejected the notion of negotiations with the U.S. under the current circumstances, citing negative past experiences.

Nuclear Program Commitment and Facility Security

On the nuclear front, Araghchi reiterated Iran’s commitment to never pursuing nuclear weapons, citing security doctrines and the Supreme Leader’s fatwa. He stated Iran’s readiness to grant full access to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for verification and monitoring, as has been done in the past. He explained that restrictions on inspector access following the last June attack were due to the need for a new protocol to investigate a bombed nuclear facility, citing risks of radiation and unexploded materials. Araghchi assured that Iran’s nuclear stock is secure and that upon reaching a deal, the material could be retrieved under IAEA supervision.

Readiness for US Ground Invasion and Allied Support

When asked about the possibility of a U.S. ground invasion, Araghchi stated, “We are waiting for them.” He expressed confidence in Iran’s ability to confront such an invasion, calling it a potential “big disaster” for the U.S. He highlighted advancements in Iran’s missile technology and preparedness for any eventuality. Araghchi also confirmed that Russia and China are providing political support and that military cooperation with Russia continues, though he declined to provide specific details during wartime.

Internet Restrictions and Internal Stability

Addressing reports of internet cutoffs, Araghchi explained that while access is generally available, restrictions are sometimes imposed for security reasons during the war to protect citizens and facilities. He denied sending messages urging citizens to stay indoors, stating that such advice is normal during wartime to ensure safety from potential bombardments. He asserted that Iran is not nervous about internal stability, claiming widespread public support and social solidarity following the recent events.

Message to the US: End the Unnecessary War

In his closing remarks, Araghchi conveyed a direct message to President Trump and the American people, stating that the U.S. plan for a swift victory has failed and that any subsequent plans will also fail. He urged the U.S. to stop the war, calling it “absolutely unnecessary” and driven by those who prioritize Israel over America. He emphasized that Iran will resist as long as necessary and that the U.S. should accept responsibility for its actions.

Source: Full exclusive interview: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi speaks to NBC News (YouTube)