Iran prepared to counter US ground attack: Araghchi

Iran is ready to counter any potential US ground attack and does not fear the entry of American forces into its territory, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said.

In an interview with NBC News, Araghchi was asked whether he anticipates a possible US ground strike. He replied, “No, we are waiting for them,” adding, “We are prepared for this war.”

Speaking at an online press conference for Persian-language media abroad, the spokesperson said Iran resumed rebuilding its missile production after the June 2025 war, while also maintaining its nuclear programme. Before the conflict, Iran reportedly had around 3,000 missiles, many of which were used or destroyed during the fighting. By the start of Israel’s “Operation Lion’s Roar” on Saturday, Iran had reportedly reconstructed about 2,500 missiles.

If production continues at the same pace, the spokesperson claimed, Iran could possess up to 8,000 ballistic missiles by 2027.

The joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28 targeted multiple Iranian military and strategic sites. Israel said the operation killed around 40 senior Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, while significantly degrading the country’s military capabilities.

The ongoing conflict in Iran has now entered its sixth day. International media report that nearly 1,000 people have been killed and over 5,000 injured so far.