“Iran’s Hard‑Line Speaker Accuses US of Masking Attack Plans with Talk of Negotiations”

Iran Warns US Against Escalation: ‘The Enemy Talks of Negotiations but Plans Attacks’

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has issued a defiant warning to the United States, stating that Tehran will not surrender and that the ongoing conflict “will not end without victory.” He highlighted that Iran and its regional allies have already delivered “major blows” to US forces and their partners, and that resistance groups in Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen are gaining strength.

Qalibaf accused Washington of sending mixed signals—publicly discussing negotiations while secretly preparing for military escalation. “The enemy talks about negotiations but plans attacks,” he said, cautioning Iranians not to be misled.

The remarks come amid Pentagon preparations for potential ground operations in Iran. Thousands of US troops are already stationed across the Middle East, with options ranging from short, high-impact raids targeting missile sites, air defences, and coastal installations, to more aggressive measures—including blockades of Kharg Island, strikes near the Strait of Hormuz, and limited ground missions tied to nuclear facilities.

Qalibaf stressed that Iran is ready for any scenario. “Our people should not think the enemy can enter easily,” he said, promising continued missile strikes and claiming that adversaries are already witnessing “fear and panic.” He made clear that any attempt to force Iran into submission would fail. “As long as they seek Iran’s surrender, the answer is clear — we will not accept humiliation.”

Framing the conflict as part of a wider global struggle, Qalibaf called for full public mobilisation, warning that any attack would trigger strong retaliation. He praised nationwide unity, highlighting that citizens—from workers to artists—are supporting Iran’s war effort, reinforcing the country’s position.

US officials insist that any military action would be limited and rapid, but the risks remain high. Iranian forces, particularly the Revolutionary Guard, could mount strong resistance, making even small-scale operations potentially explosive. The standoff raises fears that limited US strikes could escalate into a broader regional conflict.