Iran-US tensions have reached a new level. Tehran has said it is preparing for a possible US ground attack. At the same time, Iran has warned the US of severe consequences against any attempt to occupy the strategic Kharg Island.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baghai said that the country’s leadership is ready to deal with the US if it tries to launch a ground operation.
At a press conference in Tehran on Monday (July 20), Baghayi said there are people in Iran’s leadership who are ready for a possible US ground operation and are waiting to confront US forces.
He also said that the United States will have to suffer severe consequences if it takes any action like occupying the strategic Kharg Island in southern Iran.
Asked whether diplomatic talks with the US would continue or not, Baghayi said Tehran considers both diplomacy and deterrence to protect its national interests.
He claimed that there is no ambiguity about the content of the interim memorandum of understanding with the United States.
He said, ‘The MoU is short and has 14 clauses. From the beginning, we have been saying that the future management of the Strait of Hormuz is the responsibility of Iran. In this regard, consultation with Oman and dialogue with regional countries will proceed.
He also said, ‘The language of the agreement is completely clear. So there is no excuse for the United States to break this agreement.’
The Iranian spokesman said that despite the ongoing conflict, the US message reached Tehran through intermediaries.
He said, ‘We got the message through intermediaries. I don’t want to go into details, but diplomatic activity has continued in recent days and various mediators have conveyed some proposals and ideas to us.’
Baghai blames the US for the recent escalation of tensions. He said that Tehran has no enmity towards Iran’s neighboring countries. However, he urged not to use their territory to attack Iran.
“We have repeatedly said that we have no enmity towards regional countries,” Baghai warned. But we hope they will fulfill their responsibilities and not allow attacks against Iran from their territory. As long as such attacks continue, our armed forces will continue to respond.’
TimesBD/ rabbi
