Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that their ground forces of IRGC and Basij are fully prepared for a high-casualty, “quagmire” style of resistance that he believes the U.S. cannot win.
“No, we are waiting for them. Because we are confident that we can confront them, and that would be a big disaster for them.” He remarked. Araghchi clarified that “waiting for them” doesn’t mean Iran wants the war to continue, but rather that their ground forces (IRGC and Basij) are fully prepared for a high-casualty, “swamp” style of resistance that he believes the U.S. cannot win.
In a separate statement to state media, Araghchi warned that U.S. troops staying in regional hotels (such as in Bahrain or Kuwait) would not be safe, alleging that the U.S. was using these locations as “human shields” to avoid strikes. Araghchi stated that Iran has not requested a ceasefire. He referenced the 12-day conflict in June 2025, claiming it was Israel that eventually begged for a truce, and suggested Iran is prepared to outlast the current campaign.
Collapse of Diplomacy: He revealed that Iran was in the middle of active negotiations in Geneva with Trump envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner when the strikes began. He called the U.S. “dishonest” and said there is no longer a reason to talk.
Despite the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in early strikes, Araghchi insisted the government is stable and that the Assembly of Experts is following the constitution to select a successor. He dismissed President Trump’s suggestion that the U.S. should have a “role” in picking the next leader as “interference.”
Read also: Trump rejects Khamenei’s son as Iran’s future leader, calls for US role
