Friday World 28/12/2025
Tehran has once again demonstrated its military strength. Iran's Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, revealed in an interview with Al Jazeera that the 12-day war with Israel in June 2025 provided Iran with invaluable experience. During this conflict, Iran successfully tested its ballistic missiles in
actual combat conditions
→ Araghchi stated: "We learned a great deal from the 12-day attack by the Zionist regime. We tested our missiles in real battle, evaluating their accuracy, penetration capability, and impact. Now we are more prepared than ever before. If Israel takes any aggressive step again, it will face severe and irreparable losses."
→ The war began in June 2025 when Israel launched surprise attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities, military bases, and key commanders. The United States also participated, bombing three major Iranian nuclear centers. In response, Iran launched hundreds of missiles and drones, exposing vulnerabilities in Israel's multi-layered air defense system. According to Iran, its missiles penetrated Israeli airspace and struck several critical targets.
→ Araghchi emphasized that Israel attempted to escalate the war regionally by targeting Iran's oil installations, but Iran managed the situation effectively and prevented broader expansion. He labeled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a "war criminal" and asserted that Israel could not have started such a war without America's green light.
→ On the missile program, Araghchi was unequivocal: "We will not discuss our missile program with anyone. No sensible country is willing to give up its weapons. What cannot be taken by war cannot be taken by politics either." He called demands to halt uranium enrichment impossible and reiterated that Iran's nuclear program is entirely peaceful. → Regarding nuclear talks, Iran's position is clear – Tehran is not interested in direct negotiations but is open to indirect channels for a possible agreement. Araghchi described the European countries' activation of the snapback mechanism as "illegal" and stated that there is no international consensus for sanctions on Iran.
→ Finally, the Foreign Minister prioritized strengthening ties with neighboring countries and said: "We are ready for dialogue with the West without any preconditions or pressure." This statement reflects Iran's growing confidence. After the 12-day war, Tehran has addressed its weaknesses, increased missile production, and strengthened its regional position. The key question now is – is peace possible in the Middle East, or is the threat of a new conflict looming?
Sajjad Ali Nayani ✍🏼
Friday World 28/12/2025
