Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, called the latest US airstrikes “a blatant act of aggression.” These attacks were narrowly focused on precision strikes against Iran’s most important nuclear enrichment sites. President Trump personally approved the strikes on June 22. He characterized them as an operation that “completely destroyed” key components of Iran’s nuclear program. Throughout the process Iran has been clear and unequivocal that it will not yield. If pushed farther, though, it is prepared to respond with its full fury.
The hostilities that led to last week’s strike broke out after a number of Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, after which Iran retaliated. Araghchi was passionate to convey the fact that Iran has millions of dedicated followers behind their Supreme Leader, Grand Ayatollah Khamenei. He added that any disrespect shown to him would be totally intolerable. He expressed his concerns regarding the President’s approach to addressing Supreme Leader Khamenei. He called on the president to reconsider his direction if he is interested in creating a climate for constructive conversation.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Araghchi urged Trump to “stop hurting his millions of heartfelt followers.” He warned that the Iranian people, who have already shown firmness in the face of violence and threats, do not take kindness lightly.
“If President Trump is genuine about wanting a deal, he should put aside the disrespectful and unacceptable tone towards Iran’s Supreme Leader, Grand Ayatollah Khamenei, and stop hurting his millions of heartfelt followers.” – Abbas Araghchi
Araghchi denied that this is so. For one, he pointed to early reports showing only light to moderate damage found on the nuclear complex, as evidence that Iran’s nuclear protection is still working.
“If Illusions lead to worse mistakes, Iran will not hesitate to unveil its Real Capabilities, which will certainly END any Delusion about the Power of Iran.” – Abbas Araghchi
In his comments, Trump expressed skepticism about Iran returning to a nuclear program in the near future, stating, “I don’t believe that they’re going to go back into nuclear anytime soon.” This characterizes the attitude of U.S. officials, who have insinuated that the airstrikes stopped Iran’s nuclear progress for at least the short-term.
As both nations continue to walk a tightrope, the future looks uncertain for U.S.-China relations. Iran’s Supreme Leader commands a substantial following, and the government’s response to U.S. actions could shape future diplomatic efforts. Iran has key nuclear enrichment sites and has explicitly declared its real capability. The international community is watching the situation intently, as the two sides head toward the next move in this escalating and violent conflict.