Iran is ready for war: Araghchi

Iran has warned that it is ready for war if the United States seeks to test its military capability. Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi made the remarks in an interview with Al Jazeera.

In a special interview with Al Jazeera Arabic on Monday, January 12, he said the door to talks with the United States remains open, but Iran is prepared for any scenario.

He said Iran’s current military preparedness is even stronger and more extensive than it was during the conflict with Israel and the United States in June last year.

“If Washington wants to test our military strength, which it has done before, we are ready,” Araghchi said. “I hope the United States will wisely choose dialogue.” He also warned those who are trying to drag Washington into a war to serve Israel’s interests.

Speaking about the ongoing protests, the Iranian foreign minister said armed militants have infiltrated the movement and have attacked protesters and security forces.

Protests began after wholesale and retail traders in Tehran called a strike on December 28 against inflation and rising living costs. Within days, demonstrations spread like wildfire across cities and towns in all 31 provinces, bringing much of the country to a standstill.

US president Donald Trump has voiced strong support for the protests from the outset and has repeatedly warned of military action if Iran’s government uses brutal methods to suppress them.

Meanwhile, Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday pledged to overhaul the economy and said his government is ready to listen to the people.