Iran's Stated Readiness for a Prolonged Conflict with the U.S.
Iranian foreign policy advisor Kamal Kharazi has declared that Iran is prepared for a long-term war with the United States. He emphasized that with diplomatic avenues now closed, the conflict could continue until economic pressure on other nations becomes so severe that they are forced to intervene. Kharazi noted Iran's readiness to sustain strikes against Persian Gulf states, as the war imposes significant economic strain on other countries.
Perspective on Negotiations and War's Consequences
Kamal Kharazi also shared his view on negotiations, stating:
“I no longer see any room for diplomacy. This is because Donald Trump deceived others and did not honor his promises, and we experienced this twice during negotiations—when we were negotiating, they attacked us.”He added that
“there is no place for talks unless economic pressure is intensified to the point that other countries intervene to guarantee an end to American and Israeli aggression against Iran.”
Kharazi further indicated that the war generates economic pressure, manifesting as inflation and energy shortages. Should the conflict persist, this pressure will intensify, which he claims will leave other nations with no choice but to step in. Iran's Assembly of Experts, the highest religious authority, has appealed to the nation to unite around Mojtaba Khamenei, who was selected as Iran's third supreme leader. This statement comes amid heightened regional tensions following the collapse of the 2015 nuclear deal and subsequent escalations.
Consequently, Iran continues to signal its preparedness for a drawn-out conflict, an escalation with potential repercussions extending far beyond its borders to the wider region and the global economy. The absence of diplomatic efforts and the escalation of hostilities could trigger new crises in the Persian Gulf, impacting global energy markets and regional security. Given these risks, the international community is closely monitoring developments and potential pathways to revive a negotiated settlement.