Why it matters:
The remarks reflect growing confidence in Tehran following the recent confrontation with the U.S. and Israel, in which they failed to achieve their strategic objectives despite their military capabilities.
The big picture:
Iranian officials have described the outcome of the conflict as a strategic victory against two nuclear powers backed by a coalition of allies.
Tehran says the war strengthened national unity and exposed the failure of efforts to weaken the Islamic Republic from within.
What he's saying:
Esmaeil Baghaei:
“Iran managed to defeat two nuclear powers that entered the field with the support of several other countries. This is not a slogan; we are truly a superpower.”
“The Islamic Republic of Iran is the skin of Iran. The enemies sought to strip away that skin.”
“Any patriotic person understands that attempts to separate ‘Iran’ from the ‘Islamic Republic’ are entirely artificial and part of a hostile conspiracy.”
“We do not view the United States and the Israeli regime as separate actors. While differences in methods may exist, the direct responsibility lies with Washington to ensure that the Israeli regime honors the commitments it has made to Iran.”
“Any continuation of attacks in Lebanon will constitute a violation of the other side's commitments under the memorandum of understanding.”
Key points:
- He warned that continued Israeli attacks on Lebanon could undermine commitments made under the Islamabad agreement.
- The spokesman stressed that Washington bears responsibility for ensuring compliance with those commitments.
Go deeper:
Baghaei also addressed discussions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that its management falls exclusively under the jurisdiction of Iran and Oman as the two littoral states.
He said international law recognizes only Iran and Oman as having authority over decisions related to the strategic waterway.
Mojtaba Darabi - Mahboubeh Habibi
