Iran warned on Saturday that its armed forces had rebuilt their capabilities during the ceasefire and would respond forcefully if the United States resumed military action, as fresh diplomatic efforts unfolded in Tehran amid fears of another regional escalation.
Iranian Leadership Issues Stern Warning
Speaking during meetings with Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir in Tehran, Iran’s parliament speaker and top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said: “Our armed forces have rebuilt themselves during the ceasefire.” He also insisted that Tehran “will not compromise on the rights of our nation and country.”
Diplomatic Mediation Efforts
Munir met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi as part of mediation efforts aimed at preventing a return to war following months of fighting between Iran, the United States and Israel. Iranian state media said discussions focused on diplomatic initiatives and regional tensions.
US Military Options Under Consideration
The meetings came as reports emerged that Washington was considering renewed strikes on Iran if ongoing negotiations collapse. According to US media reports cited by Iranian outlets, the White House has weighed military options while continuing indirect peace talks with Tehran. President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned that military action remains possible if Iran refuses to agree to a broader settlement. Iranian officials accused Washington of making “excessive demands” during negotiations. In a call with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Araghchi said Tehran remained committed to diplomacy despite what he described as repeated military aggression and contradictory American positions.
Intelligence Reports Question Ceasefire Gains
US intelligence assessments suggesting Iran could rebuild major military capabilities within months have raised fresh doubts over the long-term impact of recent US-Israeli strikes on Tehran’s defence network. According to a CNN report citing multiple American intelligence sources, Iran has already resumed parts of its drone production during the six-week ceasefire that began in April, pointing to a much faster recovery than officials in Washington had expected.
Foreign Support for Iran’s Recovery
American agencies believe Iran’s recovery has been supported by Russia and China, with Chinese missile components reportedly continuing to reach the country despite US naval restrictions. Analysts fear Tehran may increasingly depend on drone warfare to offset weakened missile systems if conflict resumes.
Iran Rejects Uranium Relocation
Meanwhile, Reuters earlier reported that Iran has rejected calls to move enriched uranium stockpiles abroad, with leadership figures insisting the material remain inside the country for security reasons.
