Mohammad Ghalibaf Warns of US Pressure and Calls for National Unity
"The US aims to destroy the country's unity in order to force us into surrender."
Tehran — Mohammad Ghalibaf, Iran's parliamentary speaker, has released audio messages via state media cautioning Iranians about forthcoming hardships. He attributes these difficulties to US efforts to weaken the country through economic pressure and the potential for military or terrorist attacks.
Key Statements by Ghalibaf
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US Intentions: According to Ghalibaf, the US aims to "destroy the country's unity in order to force us into surrender."
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Military Threat: Ghalibaf cautioned that they "do not underestimate the possibility of military attacks, especially terrorist attacks," referencing US President Donald Trump's threat to intensify bombing if no final agreement is reached.
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Call for Frugality: Ghalibaf urged Iranians to practice saving and frugality, describing thriftiness as a "missile that people can fire into the heart of the enemy."
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Appeal to Experts: He called on "intellectuals and specialists" to propose solutions to "problems that arise because of the war" directly to the government.
Context
- Ghalibaf was a negotiator in past talks with the US in Pakistan.
- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei suggested on social media that the US is not negotiating in good faith.
- Ghalibaf compared Iranian resilience favorably to Americans facing rising living costs, stating that Iranians' independence and faith enable them to endure hardships.