The head of the IRGC Intelligence Protection Organization dismissed negotiations with the United States, calling them a "red line" and warning that any threat to Iran’s national interests would be met with reciprocal action worldwide.
“If the US attempts any mischief, as the Supreme Leader has warned, we will respond decisively,” Brigadier General Majid Khademi said in the wake of US President Donald Trump's ultimatum for Iran to come to the negotiating table or risk military action.
“Should they threaten us, we will threaten them. If they act on their threats, we are fully prepared to retaliate, putting their national interests at risk across the world," added Khademi.
Last week, Trump reinstated his so-called "maximum pressure" policy on Iran, which includes efforts to drive its oil exports down to zero.
In several interviews, however, Trump said he preferred striking a deal to prevent Tehran from developing a nuclear weapon over bombing the country.
“Trump approached negotiations with deception, revealing some of his goals while hiding others,” Khademi said. “He aimed to dismantle Iran’s nuclear, missile, and conventional defense programs—capabilities essential for any nation.”
The IRGC commander also accused the US of misunderstanding the Iranian people while asserting that Trump had exposed America’s true nature. “As the Supreme Leader has stated, we have no limits on global engagement, but negotiations with the US remain off-limits.”
Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei voiced his clear opposition to negotiations with the US on February 7, saying such talks are "not smart, wise, or honorable."
Khademi said that any negotiation must be "intelligent, honorable, and rational," aligning with the Supreme Leader’s messaging.
