The Iranian Ministry of Intelligence announced on Wednesday that the strategic objectives of the United States and Israel towards the Islamic Republic have not changed, as they continue to seek the overthrow of the regime and the disintegration of the country. The ministry warned that what it described as the "defeated enemy" in military warfare has now shifted to using methods of soft war, cognitive warfare, and social incitement.
The ministry identified seven main axes that its adversaries are currently focusing on, including economic pressure, stirring up national and sectarian disputes, assassinations, sabotage, arms smuggling, the use of the "Starlink" system, cyber attacks, and activities by opposition media.
Details of the Event
In its statement, reported by Iranian media, the ministry confirmed that "the enemy is now seeking through other means to achieve the goal of overthrowing the country and dividing it, which was explicitly announced at the beginning of the recent war, but it failed to achieve through military attack." These statements come at a time when talks continue between Tehran and Washington to reach an agreement to end the war that began on February 28.
The ministry pointed out that Iran has faced "three imposed wars" and numerous coup attempts since the victory of its revolution in 1979, which have all failed and were led by Israel with the participation of the United States, in addition to accusations directed at Britain and Arab countries.
Context and Background
Despite the challenges, the ministry confirmed that the country has remained "stable and steadfast" despite the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, the Minister of Intelligence, and several senior military leaders. It explained that Iranian intelligence has dealt "painful blows" to Israel, reflecting the ongoing tension between the two sides.
The ministry also clarified that it has received intelligence indicating that the United States and Israel will seek to "intensify economic pressure," incite divisions among religious and ethnic groups, and carry out acts of sabotage and other "terrorist operations."
Impact and Consequences
The activities announced by the ministry include "widespread smuggling operations of various types of weapons, ammunition, and illegal communication tools," including "Starlink" devices used for satellite internet communication. The ministry accused Israel, the United States, Britain, and Europe of working on what it termed a "comprehensive hybrid war" against the Iranian people.
The priorities of this "hybrid war" currently focus on inciting social movements under the pressure of economic conditions and certain shortages, attempting to disrupt the provision of government services, and working to fuel protests and push them into the streets against government institutions.
Impact on the Arab Region
Amid these tensions, the ministry threatened opposition figures residing abroad, stating that "mercenaries, opponents, and terrorists residing abroad and their supporters will not be immune from the fire they ignite." It also confirmed that any "rioting" or espionage or communication with what it described as "terrorist" media will face "decisive legal prosecution."
For decades, Iran and Israel have engaged in a shadow war characterized by sabotage operations, but the 12-day war last year marked the first continuous military confrontation between the two adversaries. Iran does not recognize Israel and has not maintained diplomatic relations with the United States since 1980.
In conclusion, this statement comes after the killing of Intelligence Minister Ismail Khatib during the third week of the war, complicating the political and security landscape in the region further.