‘We are ready for war,’ declares Iranian Foreign Minister

Tehran open to negotiations with the United States, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says, warning that Iran is also prepared for a new war with Israel and the US.

By David Rosenberg, World Israel News

Iran is willing to negotiate with the United States but is also prepared for war with the US and Israel, Tehran’s top diplomat said Thursday, warning that the Middle East could soon face a major escalation.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Beirut, Lebanon, Thursday afternoon, addressing reporters at a press conference shortly after landing.

Araghchi said that the Middle East now faces “unprecedented threats,” blaming Israel, while warning Israel and the US that Iran is prepared for a new war.

“Our region is now facing unprecedented threats, such as those originating from the Zionist entity,” Araghchi said.

“America and Israel have tested their attack on Iran and this attack and strategy faced extreme failure,” Araghchi continued, claiming Iran was victorious in the 12-day war last June. “If they repeat it, they will face the same results.”

“We are prepared for any scenario and while we do not want war we are ready for it, though we are also prepared to negotiate. We are ready to conduct negotiations with the United States on the basis of mutual respect and mutual interests.”

“We believe that once the Americans decide to embrace the framework of constructive and positive negotiations rather than dictating terms [to Iran], then at that time the results of these negotiations will become fruitful.”

The foreign minister’s two-day visit to Lebanon comes amid reports that Israel is preparing to strike Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed Shi’ite Lebanese terror group, with the support of the Trump administration.

Iran, which has faced escalating anti-regime protests across the country, has over the past few days warned Israel and the US not to support the dissidents, including in public statements.

On Wednesday, Maj. Gen. Amir Hatami, the commander in chief of Iran’s military, threatened military action against Israel and the US over “rhetoric” against Tehran and supporting the protests.