On Wednesday, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared that the nation is prepared to respond decisively to any renewed military aggression. He emphasized that Iran could deliver an even stronger blow to its adversaries than during the previous 12-day conflict with Israel.
“The fact that our nation is ready to face the power of the United States and its dog on a leash, the Zionist regime (Israel), is very praiseworthy,” Khamenei stated.
U.S. Military Actions Prompt Iran’s Response
This declaration follows recent military actions by the United States, which conducted strikes on Iran’s nuclear and military facilities. Despite these strikes, Iran maintains that its nuclear program is intended solely for peaceful purposes. In retaliation, Iran targeted a U.S. base in Qatar.
Khamenei remarked, “The base attacked by Iran was an extremely sensitive American regional base, and an even bigger blow could be inflicted on the US and others.”
Nuclear Deal Pressure and Diplomatic Stalemate
Currently, Iran faces increasing pressure to negotiate a nuclear deal with the US. Washington, along with three European powers, has set a deadline for progress by the end of August. French Foreign Minister has indicated that if no progress is made, a “snapback” mechanism will automatically reinstigate all international sanctions lifted under the 2015 Iran deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.
However, Iran’s parliament announced that Tehran will not resume nuclear negotiations with the US unless specific preconditions are met. According to the Iranian Students’ News Agency, Khamenei stated, “In both the diplomatic and military fields, whenever we enter the stage, we do so with our hands full and not from a position of weakness.” He added that diplomats should continue to follow established “guidelines” in their negotiations.
As tensions remain high, the international community is closely monitoring the developments in Iran, particularly regarding its nuclear ambitions and military readiness.
