In an exclusive statement for Al Mayadeen, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi affirmed that the window for diplomacy remains open, emphasizing that there is always room for diplomatic efforts far from threats and pressure. 

However, he stressed the need for diplomacy to be conducted based on equality, asserting that Iran will not engage in direct negotiations with the United States under pressure or threats.

He further explained that Iran has its own rationale and justifications for engaging in discussions and negotiations, stressing that Tehran will speak when it deems it necessary and that it will not engage in direct talks with Washington.

This comes after US President Donald Trump threatened Iran with "bombing" or "secondary tariffs" if an agreement with the US over Iran's nuclear agreement is not reached.

In a telephone interview for NBC News, Trump revealed that US and Iranian officials were talking but did not elaborate or provide further details.

Iran awaits confrontation: Fadavi

IRGC Deputy Commander Brigadier General Ali Fadavi, on the other hand, asserted that Iran's response to any aggression will be proportionate and may even exceed what its adversaries attempt, highlighting that IRGC forces are eagerly awaiting a confrontation with the United States.

Fadavi, in an exclusive statement for Al Mayadeen, remarked that the US has had presidents more reckless than Trump, citing former president Ronald Reagan as an example. He recalled how Iran responded to American aggression in the Gulf during Reagan’s presidency by targeting US warships and helicopters, emphasizing that Iran’s military capabilities today are far superior to those of the 1980s.

He highlighted the high potential for inflicting damage on US forces at sea, pointing out that 40% of global oil exports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which remains under Iranian control.

Reaffirming Iran’s dominance over the strategic waterway, Fadavi stressed that the Strait of Hormuz has always been and will continue to be under Iranian control.

He warned that the US would not dare make a misstep, urging nations worldwide to learn from America’s recklessness and intervene to prevent further escalation, as its consequences extend beyond the US and impact other countries as well.

US threats 'a joke'

Meanwhile, IRGC Aerospace Force Commander Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh dismissed Trump’s threats against Iran, labeling them as closer to a joke. 

He urged American military leaders to provide more accurate assessments to their government officials, emphasizing that "those who live in glass houses should not throw stones." 

Hajizadeh warned the US administration to act with caution, asserting that Washington will not follow through on its threats, which Iran considers nothing more than a joke.

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