'Whether War Happens or Not, Our Policies Remain': Iran FM Araghchi
Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi claims US bases were obliterated and warns that regional security has fundamentally changed amid rising US-Iran tensions.
Amidst escalating US-Iran tensions, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has sent a stern warning to Washington, asserting that Tehran's strategic policies will remain unchanged regardless of whether a full-scale war erupts. Speaking at the opening of the Martyr Seyyed Kamal Kharrazi Documentation Center and Museum, Araghchi cautioned that any further military aggression against Iran would be "irrational."
A 'New Reality' in Regional Security
Araghchi emphasized that the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East has undergone a fundamental shift, particularly following what he termed the "Ramadan War." He stated that the security structures of the region have been completely upended, marking a definitive turning point in history.
The Foreign Minister specifically highlighted the Strait of Hormuz, claiming it would never return to its pre-conflict state.
"A new reality has taken hold in the region," Araghchi asserted. "Nothing will be like it was in the past."
Claims of Massive US Military Losses
In a series of bold claims, the Iranian Foreign Minister alleged that Iran's forces inflicted severe damage on American military assets during the conflict. According to Araghchi:
- More than 80 American aircraft and fighter jets were destroyed, most of which were reportedly hit by missiles while stationed on the ground.
- Nearly all US bases in the region were "obliterated," with hundreds of buildings reduced to rubble.
Araghchi insisted that any rational actor would avoid attacking Iran again given these outcomes, adding that the conclusion of the war must occur across all active fronts.
Trump's Ambiguous Stance and Counter-Claims
These remarks follow provocative comments from US President Donald Trump. After casting his ballot in the midterm elections in Florida, Trump remained cryptic when asked about a potential strike on Iran.
While suggesting that a "nice, big, beautiful agreement" might be possible if Iran can be trusted to uphold a deal, Trump also teased the possibility of military action, saying, "Maybe tomorrow... There's a possibility I will."
Contradicting Araghchi's claims of US losses, President Trump praised the performance of the US Navy and military, claiming they had "knocked out every jet fighter of Iran" and that 259 Iranian ships now lie at the bottom of the sea.
Denials Over Diplomatic Proposals
Parallel to the rhetoric, reports have surfaced regarding potential diplomatic maneuvers. A Saudi Arabian outlet previously reported that Tehran had offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the US lifting its naval blockade, using Pakistan as a mediator.
However, the IRGC-affiliated Tasnim news agency and Press TV have dismissed these reports as "a lie and fabrication." Sources indicate that Iran has made no such proposal to Pakistani mediators nor any offer to the US administration regarding the blockade.