In a bold rebuttal to escalating US threats, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei has vowed retaliation against any American military action, no matter how ‘limited’ President Trump frames it. Speaking from Tehran, Baghaei rejected the notion of restrained strikes outright, positioning them as full-scale invasions that demand a robust defense.
During Wednesday’s press conference, Baghaei addressed Trump’s provocative remarks head-on. The US President had suggested on Friday that a limited strike remained on the table if Iran stonewalls nuclear deal talks. ‘I’m thinking about it,’ Trump admitted candidly.
‘Limited strike? Such a concept doesn’t exist,’ Baghaei shot back. ‘Aggression is aggression, plain and simple. Every nation has the right to defend itself, and Iran will exercise that right without hesitation.’ His statement reflects Tehran’s unwavering policy amid fraught relations.
This exchange unfolds against recent diplomatic efforts. Iran and the US wrapped up indirect negotiations in Switzerland on Tuesday, with Oman playing mediator. Confirmations for continuation came from Iran and Oman, but the US offered no comment. Speculation points to Thursday for round three.
Iran’s military stands vigilant, Baghaei noted, balancing talks with preparedness. ‘Our forces are watchful. If negotiations turn out to be a deceptive tool, we’ll respond fittingly to the situation.’ This dual-track approach highlights Tehran’s strategy of deterrence through diplomacy and might.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi heads Iran’s team, opposite Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner from the US side. Witkoff’s recent Fox News appearance amplified tensions, questioning Iran’s refusal to capitulate on nukes despite US deployments.
Undeterred, Baghaei urged judgment based on actions. ‘We’ve faced such claims before. Let our people decide who negotiates in good faith. Prejudiced discussions lead nowhere,’ he said, encapsulating Iran’s resolve to protect sovereignty while open to fair talks.