Iran will use ‘all capabilities’, Envoy warns

2026-03-04 - 22:03

Tehran does not seek conflict but will respond to any US or Israeli aggression EXCLUSIVE Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Pakistan, Reza Amiri-Moghaddam in an exclusive interview has warned that Tehran would employ “all its capabilities” if war is imposed on it, saying American interests in the region could be targeted in the event of continued hostilities. In a recent podcast interview with Pakistan Observer’s Abdullah Gauhar (conducted before the martyrdom of the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and start of war) the Iranian envoy said Iran did not seek confrontation but would deliver a “decisive and proportionate response” to any military aggression by the United States or Israel. “If war is imposed on us, our armed forces are fully prepared to defend the country. We will use all our resources and capabilities to protect our sovereignty and national interests,” the ambassador said. He stressed that Iran had faced sustained pressure since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, including sanctions and security threats, but had remained resilient. “For more than four decades, the Islamic Republic has been subjected to political and economic pressure. Despite that, we have stood firm,” he added. Referring to rising tensions in the Middle East, the envoy said the region was passing through a critical phase. “We prefer dialogue and peaceful negotiations. However, increasing military deployments and hostile rhetoric do not contribute to regional stability,” he said. Ambassador Amiri-Moghaddam noted that public opinion, including within the United States, was wary of another war in the Middle East. “Voices are being raised even in America against destabilising policies. War will not benefit any party and will have serious consequences for the entire region,” he remarked. Responding to a question about the roots of tensions between Tehran and Washington, the ambassador said differences dated back to the Islamic Revolution. “Before 1979, Iran’s policies were heavily influenced by external powers. After the Revolution, Iran chose an independent path. This independence has not been acceptable to certain Western governments,” he said. The envoy maintained that Iran sought respectful and mutually beneficial relations with all countries, including the United States, based on equality and non-interference. “We recognise America as a major power, but relations must be founded on mutual respect,” he stated. On Israel, however, he reiterated Tehran’s long-held position, saying Iran does not recognise Israel and considers it an occupying force. He voiced support for Palestinian rights and said a just and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue was essential for durable peace in the region. Addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme, the ambassador asserted that it was entirely peaceful and remained under the safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency. “Our nuclear activities are transparent and monitored. We remain committed to our international obligations,” he said. Commenting on recent protests in parts of Iran, the envoy alleged that foreign elements sought to exploit internal issues to create instability. However, he emphasised that Iran remained stable and united in defending its sovereignty. The ambassador concluded by expressing hope that ongoing diplomatic efforts would reduce tensions and pave the way for constructive engagement rather than confrontation.