Iran Guard spokesman Ali Mohammad Naini rejected recent statements by former United States president Donald Trump, insisting that Iranian forces remain active and capable in the regional conflict. The statement, issued by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps public relations office and reported by Tasnim news agency, directly challenged Trump’s claims about Iran’s military status and the situation in the Gulf region.
Naini criticised assertions that Iran’s armed forces had weakened or that missile attacks had ceased. He said Iranian missile operations targeting US and Israeli positions continue, with warheads now exceeding one tonne. According to the spokesman, American naval vessels and aircraft have been forced to operate further from the Gulf to avoid Iranian missiles and drones, with distances exceeding 1,000 kilometres in some cases. He also referenced an incident involving missiles targeting the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln.
The statement suggested that US forces have vacated some regional bases and relocated to nearby cities and hotels. Naini also highlighted Israeli military activity, claiming that Israeli forces operate close to civilian areas and have repeatedly imposed long shelter alerts on residents, limiting their movement and travel.
The spokesman accused Trump of attempting to provoke unrest within Iran and undermine the political system. Naini said Iranian authorities anticipated efforts to trigger protests but instead observed strong public support for the leadership. He further defended Iran’s political process, stating that the country selected a new leader without foreign influence despite external pressures.
Naini linked the conflict to global oil markets, noting sharp price increases in the early days of the war and accusing Washington of seeking to control energy markets. He warned that continued attacks could disrupt oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz and said Iranian forces would prevent exports if hostilities persisted.
The statement also claimed that Iranian forces have destroyed advanced US radar systems and shot down multiple drones. Naini suggested that the United States faces ammunition shortages and is seeking ways to exit the conflict. He concluded with a warning that Iran holds the initiative in the region and will determine the timing and conditions of any end to the hostilities.
