Tehran, Iran – In a new escalation reflecting the peak of tensions between the two powers, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf issued a strongly worded warning to the United States.
He asserted that Tehran is prepared for all scenarios and presented Washington with two unpalatable options: “diplomacy of dignity” or “defense that will lead to regret.”
Qalibaf: A firm hand versus deception
The Iranian news agency Tasnim quoted Qalibaf on Wednesday as saying that Tehran is open to political solutions, provided the dignity and interests of the Iranian people are respected.
He emphasized, “If you choose the table of diplomacy, where dignity is preserved, we will be there.”
However, Qalibaf’s tone quickly turned threatening. He warned against any miscalculations
or misinformation that might lead the US administration to repeat past mistakes.
He added firmly, “If you decide to launch an attack during negotiations, you will undoubtedly experience the full force of Iran’s defense forces.”
Trump and Washington hawks: Nuclear “red lines”
On the other hand, in his State of the Union address to Congress, US President Donald Trump outlined his strategy toward what he called “the world’s leading sponsor of terrorism.”
Trump clearly stated that he would not allow Iran to possess a nuclear weapon.
He also indicated that the Iranian regime and its proxies had spread nothing but “terror, death, and hatred.”
Despite the unprecedented US military buildup in the Middle East, Trump did not provide the public
with precise details regarding the scope of a potential military operation.
However, he based his arguments on Tehran’s support for armed groups in the region,
the resumption of its nuclear program and the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching US territory, and
its responsibility for attacks targeting American soldiers and civilians.
A race against time: agreement or explosion
While Tehran insists its nuclear program is for civilian and peaceful purposes,
frustration is mounting in the White House over the stalled negotiations.
Trump remarked sarcastically, “They want a deal, but we haven’t heard the code words:
“We will never have a nuclear weapon.”
Reports indicate the region is on high alert. The military buildup could escalate
into open conflict lasting weeks unless a sudden diplomatic breakthrough occurs.
While Iranian media outlets report the development of missiles capable of reaching North America,
the question remains: Will diplomacy prevail, or will military force have the final say?
