Colonel Ibrahim Zolfaghari, spokesperson for the central headquarters "Khatam al-Anbiya" of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, mocked US claims regarding ceasefire negotiations, emphasizing that Americans "are negotiating with themselves only." These statements were made during a video broadcast on Iranian state television, where Zolfaghari pointed out that the strategic power the US claims has turned into a strategic failure.
Zolfaghari added: "Those who claim to be a global superpower would have exited this predicament if they could. Do not adorn your defeat with an agreement. The time for your empty promises has ended." These remarks come at a sensitive time, as the administration of US President Donald Trump sent a 15-point ceasefire plan to Iran via Pakistan.
Details of the Event
In a related context, Zolfaghari confirmed that Iran will not reach an agreement with the United States, stating: "Those like us will not reach an agreement with those like you. Not now, nor at any time." These statements reflect an escalation in tensions between Iran and the United States, as diplomatic efforts to contain the rising conflict between the two sides have accelerated.
Earlier, President Donald Trump announced that his country is currently engaged in "negotiations now" with "the right people" in Iran, indicating that Tehran "strongly desires" to reach an agreement that ends hostilities. Trump also mentioned that Iran has made a "big gift" concerning the oil and gas sectors, likely related to the Strait of Hormuz.
Context and Background
These statements coincide with military escalation by Iran, as the Revolutionary Guard announced the launch of ten waves of missiles towards Israel, while the Israeli army confirmed executing over 3,000 strikes inside Iran, targeting command centers and military production facilities.
At the same time, the US Department of Defense (Pentagon) is considering deploying about 3,000 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East to support operations, reflecting Washington's readiness to expand its military options in parallel with the diplomatic track.
Impact and Consequences
The escalating conflict between the United States and Iran has caused disruptions in oil supplies, with about one-fifth of the world's liquefied natural gas and oil supplies halted through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has informed the UN Security Council and the International Maritime Organization about the possibility of "non-hostile ships" passing through the Strait of Hormuz, provided they coordinate with Iranian authorities.
The Iranian Atomic Energy Organization has also accused the United States and Israel of attacking the Bushehr nuclear plant, further complicating the situation in the region. The International Atomic Energy Agency has called for restraint to avoid nuclear risks during conflicts.
Impact on the Arab Region
These developments directly affect security and stability in the Arab region, as fears of escalating military conflict between Iran and its allies on one side and the United States and its allies on the other side grow. Any military escalation could lead to serious economic repercussions for countries in the region, especially those dependent on oil supplies.
In conclusion, the situation in the region remains tense, with ongoing mutual statements between the concerned parties, complicating peace efforts and reflecting a state of instability in the Middle East.