Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on Wednesday the United States is trying to restart the war and hoping Iran will give up.
In an audio message on his official website, Ghalibaf warned: “The enemy’s movements, both overt and clandestine, show that despite economic and political pressure, it has not abandoned its military objectives and is seeking to start a new war.” His remarks came as Tehran and Washington traded threats while swapping proposals to end the war that began on February 28. A ceasefire has been in place since April 8.
The Revolutionary Guards also warned the conflict could spread beyond the region if the US and Israel resume attacks after President Donald Trump said he would strike again unless Tehran agreed a peace deal.
Ghalibaf said the US still hopes Iran will surrender and accept Washington’s “excessive demands,” by keeping economic pressure and a naval blockade that has been in place since April 13. He added: “We must strengthen our preparations for an effective and forceful response to any potential attacks,” and insisted that “Iran will never give in to intimidation, under any circumstances.”
Acknowledging the economic pain for Iranians, Ghalibaf appealed for “national unity.” He warned: “Today it is clearer than ever that we are engaged in a war of wills. Whoever wins this war will write Iran’s history and determine its future.”
