Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi issued a fiery warning to the United States, declaring that Iran’s armed forces are “1,000 percent ready” to defend the country against any military escalation. Araghchi rejected reported CIA assessments claiming Iran’s missile capabilities had been weakened after recent US and Israeli strikes, insisting Tehran’s missile inventory is now “120 percent” stronger than before.
Araghchi Challenges US Intelligence
Speaking at a press conference, Araghchi directly challenged the credibility of US intelligence agencies, stating, “The CIA got it wrong. Our missile power has not diminished; it has increased. We have a 120 percent stockpile ready to respond to any aggression.” He accused Washington of choosing “reckless military adventures” over diplomacy and warned that Iranians would never bow to pressure.
Regional Tensions Escalate
The comments come amid soaring regional tensions and growing fears of a wider Middle East conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel. Araghchi’s statement follows recent US and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets, which Tehran claims have only strengthened its resolve. He emphasized that Iran’s military readiness is at an all-time high, with forces fully prepared to counter any threats.
Araghchi also criticized the US for its continued military presence in the region, calling it a destabilizing factor. He urged Washington to return to diplomatic negotiations instead of relying on military force. “The Iranian people will never surrender to pressure or threats,” he added.
Related incidents reported in recent days include Iranian missile attacks on US warships in the Hormuz Strait, which Tehran says were in retaliation for a strike on Bandar Abbas. US President Donald Trump has acknowledged the attacks and called for a deal to end the conflict, while also mobilizing allies like Saudi Arabia and Kuwait to open bases for US military operations.
The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides signaling readiness for further escalation. Analysts warn that any miscalculation could trigger a full-scale war, drawing in regional powers and impacting global oil supplies.
