ALWAGHT- An Iranian deputy foreign minister stated that any efforts by the incoming Trump administration to reinstate Washington's 'maximum pressure' policy on Iran will be countered with 'maximum resistance' by the Islamic Republic.
Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht Ravanchi, speaking to The Financial Times, criticized former US President Donald Trump's "maximum pressure" policy, which involved withdrawing from the nuclear deal and intensifying sanctions on Iran. He warned that any attempt by Trump or a similar administration to reinstate this approach would face "maximum resistance" and fail to achieve significant changes, including in the oil sector.
Takht Ravanchi highlighted Iran's countermeasures during the previous campaign, including expanding its nuclear energy program, diversifying trade partnerships, and bolstering regional ties. He noted that Western pressure failed to coerce Iran back to negotiations while the other parties violated the deal.
Although reaffirming Iran's openness to dialogue, he emphasized that future negotiations depend on other parties returning to their commitments under the nuclear agreement. He called for observing US policy before speculating on Iran’s response.
Takht Ravanchi also addressed the assassination of General Qassem Soleimani, stating that Iran's judiciary is pursuing legal action. Regarding Israel’s recent attacks on Iranian soil, he stressed that while Iran does not seek war, it is prepared to defend itself. He reaffirmed Iran's unwavering support for the Axis of Resistance, a stance he said would not change.
Finally, Takht Ravanchi dismissed rumors of a meeting between Iran’s UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani and Trump ally Elon Musk, calling the reports baseless.
