Iran has prepared for a prolonged war and will respond forcefully, based on the "eye for an eye" principle, Mohammad Sadegh Motamedian, the governor of Tehran, stated on Sunday.

Speaking to Al Mayadeen, Motamedian noted that the war is no longer confined to Iran and the United States, stressing that its repercussions have already begun to affect the global economy.

He added that Washington entered the region “in the name of democracy” with the aim of plundering the resources of its peoples, asserting that “the enemies possess no real history and are waging a relentless criminal war.” He also said Iranians are witnessing firsthand the scale of the crimes committed by the Israeli occupation.

Cultural, scientific centers among main targets

Motamedian emphasized that cultural, scientific, and civilian institutions are among the primary targets of the US–Israeli aggression, noting that 19 museums in Tehran and 58 other centers across the country have sustained damage.

He further stated that the “illegitimate demands” of the Israeli entity are ultimately paid for by the peoples of the region, adding that medical, cultural, and religious facilities have also suffered damage as a result of the aggression.

Regarding the domestic security situation, Motamedian said it remains stable thanks to the capabilities of the country’s armed and security forces. He added that all road infrastructure damaged by the attacks in Tehran has been repaired through the efforts of the relevant authorities.

He also pointed to ongoing cooperation between Iranian traders and their counterparts in neighboring countries to secure essential goods and ensure their continued supply, stressing that there is no shortage of basic commodities or fuel in the country.

Governance based on popular sovereignty

The Iranian official affirmed that the public stands alongside the armed forces in maintaining security in the capital, stressing that governance in Iran is based on the principle of popular sovereignty.

He described this year’s International Quds Day as “different from previous years” due to the huge turnout in the commemoration. 

Earlier today, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told CBS News that Iran has not requested a ceasefire in the ongoing war with the United States and will continue defending itself “as long as it takes."

Speaking on Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan, Araghchi described the war as “a war of choice by President Trump and the United States,” adding that US attacks are being carried out “because President Trump wants to have fun.”

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