Iranian authorities signaled readiness for defense operations as the United States continues to posture military assets in the region amid ongoing diplomatic maneuvers aimed at conflict avoidance. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan in Istanbul on Friday to discuss the escalating geopolitical tensions stemming from persistent US threats.
Araghchi affirmed Tehran’s commitment to negotiation, stating diplomacy remains the sole viable path to resolving the standoff, provided the process adheres to principles of “justice and law.” This diplomatic positioning occurred concurrently with reports of significant US military movements, including the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group near Iranian maritime boundaries, according to sources cited by Al Jazeera.
Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan urged Washington to resist what he described as Israeli encouragement for military intervention against Iran, warning such actions could severely destabilize regional security. Fidan advocated for the immediate resumption of nuclear talks between the US and Iran, viewing renewed dialogue as vital for defusing current friction points.
Conversely, senior Iranian officials maintained a firm defensive posture, emphasizing operational readiness over immediate negotiation. Kazem Gharibabadi, a member of the Iranian negotiating team, stated that the country’s current priority is maintaining “200 percent readiness to defend our country,” noting that past negotiations were interrupted by prior military actions.
Iran has recently showcased its expanded military capabilities, adding one thousand new strategic drones, including suicide and reconnaissance variants, following recent military exercises. Army commander Amir Hamati asserted that the military's objective includes improving strategic advantages for a swift and decisive response to any aggression.
Domestically, Iranian authorities are preparing for potential conflict scenarios, including bolstering civilian preparedness. Tehran’s mayor announced plans for underground parking shelters, though construction timelines suggest limited immediate protection should aerial conflict erupt soon.
Furthermore, the potential for renewed communication blackouts, reminiscent of recent nationwide internet shutdowns during protests, looms over the populace. This looming digital isolation adds to public anxiety regarding the economic and social disruption another conflict would entail, even as officials project defiance.
