Tehran: Iran, on Friday, accused US president Donald Trump of prioritising “reckless” military action over diplomatic efforts to the Middle East crisis.
Saying that Iranians would never bow to pressure, the country’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said that the US government consistently avoids peaceful resolutions, even as Tehran reviews a proposal that includes a pause on nuclear enrichment, sanctions relief, and talks on the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by Hindustan Times.
“Every time a diplomatic solution is on the table, the US opts for a reckless military adventure,” Araghchi said, wondering whether the American approach is a “crude pressure tactic” or the result of the US president being “duped” into a war by outside influences.
“Whatever the causes, the outcome is the same: Iranians never bow to pressure and diplomacy is always the victim,” Araghchi said.
Interestingly, the CIA has rejected Trump’s claims that Iran’s military strength, following weeks of bombardment by the U
S and Israeli forces, was “mostly decimated” and reduced to roughly 18-19%. Internal reports by the agency suggest a much higher retention rate.
Araghchi went further. While US officials suggested Iran’s mobile launcher capacity stands at 75% of its pre-war levels, he claimed the military has actually expanded its capabilities.
“The CIA is wrong,” the foreign minister said. “The correct figure is 120%”, adding that Iran’s readiness to defend its citizens is at “1,000%.”
Araghchi said that Iran remains committed to its position and that recent developments show diplomacy is being undermined despite ongoing efforts to maintain calm.
This latest round of sparring comes amid escalating naval and aerial combat. The US military reported neutralising Iranian drones and fast-boats in the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran accused US forces of targeting an oil tanker and striking civilian areas in southern regions such as Qeshm Island.
Trump, however, described the recent bombings as a “love tap” and maintained that a ceasefire remains in effect. Iran also introduced new transit rules for ships in the Strait of Hormuz, requiring permits under a new authority. Reports also said a Chinese-owned oil tanker was attacked near the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran also launched missiles and drones on US bases in the Gulf on Thursday. While these were intercepted, three injuries were reported in the UAE.