A hardline Iranian newspaper affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said on Tuesday that recent US military posturing lacks economic and strategic backing, and said Washington has no choice but to rely on diplomacy with Iran and China.
“Military threats and gestures of war not only lack economic backing but result in failure against Iran and China,” the paper said.
The editorial said the United States “can only rely on diplomacy” and criticized US President Donald Trump’s envoy, saying “Steve Witkoff exaggerates to shape the news ahead of the fifth round of talks.”
Witkoff said earlier this week that the United States “can’t allow Iran to retain even 1% enrichment capability,” according to remarks aired by ABC News.
On the talks, Javan said Iran would only engage in “clear nuclear cooperation” if sanctions are lifted at the beginning of any agreement.
The paper added: “If new sanctions are used, there will be penalties and costly measures against the US and European economies. These sanctions will include restrictions and bans in areas under control.”