Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) top adviser has stated that American military strength is not as formidable as previously thought, following the February attack on Iran by the United States and Israel. Talks to end the conflict have hit a standstill.
In a rare interview with Western media, Brig.-Gen. Mohammad Reza Naqdi, the supreme adviser to the IRGC’s commander-in-chief, expressed that Iran has not yet achieved its ultimate goal in the ongoing war. Naqdi emphasized Iran’s current and future victories in the conflict.
An interim agreement between Washington and Tehran to halt hostilities was reached in mid-June and is nearing its expiration date. Naqdi’s remarks come after a period of escalated tensions and military exchanges between the U.S. and Iran.
Naqdi highlighted the importance of the ongoing war in providing Iran with valuable combat experience against the American military. He pointed out that the prolonged conflict has revealed perceived weaknesses in the U.S. military’s capabilities.
President Donald Trump reaffirmed the U.S.’ control over the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the strength of the naval blockade in a recent statement. Since the conflict began in the Persian Gulf, Trump has oscillated between threats of escalation and optimism for a peace agreement.
In efforts to resume negotiations, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Interior Minister have engaged in talks with Iranian officials. Discussions have stalled over Iran’s control of the vital shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz.
The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with both Iran and Lebanon suffering losses. Iran has targeted U.S. assets and infrastructure in several countries across the region. The interim ceasefire deal aimed to pave the way for a final agreement on Tehran’s nuclear program and the lifting of U.S. sanctions.
Both Iran and the U.S. have escalated rhetoric in recent days, with Iran’s security official asserting that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed unless the U.S. meets Iran’s conditions. President Trump has demanded compensation from Iran for past conflicts, setting the stage for further negotiations.