Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi affirmed on Friday that Iran won’t initiate hostilities but stands ready to deliver a robust response to any form of bullying. The statement follows heightened speculation on potential U.S. retaliation after three American soldiers lost their lives in a strike linked to an Iranian-backed group in Jordan.
Recent reports from CBS News suggest the U.S. has greenlit plans for multi-day strikes in Iraq and Syria, targeting various sites, including Iranian personnel and facilities. In a televised address, President Raisi conveyed, “We will not start any war, but if anyone wants to bully us, they will receive a strong response.”
Reflecting on changing dynamics, Raisi noted a shift in U.S. rhetoric, stating, “Before, when they (the Americans) wanted to talk to us, they said the military option is on the table. Now they say they have no intention of a conflict with Iran.”
Emphasizing Iran’s regional military power as a stabilizing force, Raisi assured that it poses no threat but instead ensures security that regional nations can rely on and trust. The U.S. has attributed the drone responsible for the attack on its soldiers to Iran, leading to heightened tensions.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that Iran’s Revolutionary Guards are withdrawing senior officers from Syria, where Iranian advisers support armed groups. As geopolitical complexities unfold, the situation underscores the delicate balance in the region and the potential ramifications of military actions.
