A senior advisor to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has stated that Iranian officials have observed a perceived weakness in the American military compared to their initial assessments since the U.S. and Israel initiated an attack on Iran in February. Talks to resolve the conflict have hit a standstill.
During a rare interview with Western media, Brig.-Gen. Mohammad Reza Naqdi, who serves as the supreme advisor to the IRGC’s commander-in-chief, expressed that Iran has not achieved its ultimate goal in the ongoing conflict when questioned about winning the war. Naqdi emphasized that they have been successful so far and are poised to continue their success in the future.
An interim agreement between the U.S. and Iran aimed at ending hostilities was reached in mid-June and is approaching its expiration date. Naqdi’s remarks come following a breakdown in the ceasefire, leading to exchanges of strikes between the U.S. and Iran before a temporary halt.
Highlighting the learning experience gained from the prolonged conflict, Naqdi mentioned, “The longer this war lasts, the more experience we gain. We had never seen a real war to gain real experience to learn how to fight with America.” He also noted a perceived weakness in the American military compared to previous assumptions.
President Donald Trump reiterated the U.S.’ dominance over the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing control despite ongoing tensions. The conflict in the Persian Gulf, initiated by coordinated actions by the U.S. and Israel against Iran, has seen fluctuating rhetoric from Trump, alternating between threats of escalation and claims of imminent peace deals.
Meanwhile, efforts to resume negotiations between Iran and the U.S. are ongoing, with Pakistan playing a mediating role. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Interior Minister have engaged in discussions with Iranian counterparts in attempts to revive peace talks. The focus of the negotiations has been on Iran’s control of the vital Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route for global oil supplies.
Amid accusations and counter-accusations between the U.S. and Iran regarding the terms of the ceasefire agreement, thousands have lost their lives in the conflict, primarily in Iran and Lebanon. The conflict has also led to attacks on U.S. assets and infrastructure in various countries by Iran.
The ceasefire agreement set a timeline for finalizing a deal to limit Iran’s nuclear program and lift U.S. sanctions, with both sides engaging in heightened rhetoric in recent days. Iran’s top security official has reaffirmed the closure of the Strait of Hormuz unless the U.S. meets specific conditions, while Trump has called for compensation from Iran for past actions.