Iranian Foreign Minister Addresses Key Issues in Conflict
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi spoke with NBC News from Tehran, addressing several topics concerning the ongoing conflict and Iran's position.
Sinking of Iranian Warship
Araghchi asserted that the United States committed a "war crime" by sinking an Iranian warship in the Bay of Bengal. He stated that the ship was unarmed and carrying trainees, participating in a training exercise in the region.
Araghchi asserted that the United States committed a "war crime" by sinking an Iranian warship in the Bay of Bengal. The ship was unarmed and carrying trainees.
Iranian Leadership Structure
Regarding the leadership in Iran, Araghchi stated that "the system is working very well." He clarified that, under the constitution, a council of cabinet ministers is fulfilling the duties of the supreme leader. He added that the assembly of experts is responsible for choosing the successor, not Khamenei's son.
Under the constitution, a council of cabinet ministers is fulfilling the duties of the supreme leader, and the assembly of experts is responsible for choosing the successor.
Actions Against Neighbors
Araghchi denied that Iran had attacked its neighbors. Instead, he stated that Iran targeted American bases "which are unfortunately located [on] the soils of our neighbours." He reported communicating with foreign ministers of these nations to explain that they were not the targets, acknowledging that some "collateral damages" may have occurred, as is common in warfare.
Iran targeted American bases "which are unfortunately located [on] the soils of our neighbours," not the neighboring nations themselves.
Ceasefire Stance
Araghchi stated that Iran does not see a reason to negotiate a ceasefire with the U.S., citing previous instances where the U.S. engaged in conflict during negotiations.
Iran does not see a reason to negotiate a ceasefire with the U.S., citing previous instances of U.S. conflict during negotiations.
Preparedness for US Ground Invasion
When asked about Iran's preparedness for a potential U.S. ground invasion, Araghchi stated, "We are waiting for them." He expressed confidence that Iran can confront such an invasion, predicting a "big disaster" for the U.S.
Araghchi expressed confidence in Iran's ability to confront a U.S. ground invasion, stating, "We are waiting for them," and predicting a "big disaster" for the U.S.