A high-ranking advisor to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has remarked that the American military appears weaker than previously thought following the U.S. and Israel’s offensive against Iran earlier this year. Talks to end the conflict have hit a standstill.
In a rare interview with Western media, Brig.-Gen. Mohammad Reza Naqdi, the top advisor to IRGC’s commander-in-chief, stated that Iran has not achieved its ultimate objective in the war yet. Naqdi expressed confidence in Iran’s current and future success in the conflict.
An interim agreement between the U.S. and Iran to halt hostilities was reached in mid-June and is due to expire soon. Naqdi’s comments come in the aftermath of a breakdown in the ceasefire, leading to a series of exchanges between the U.S. and Iran before a temporary pause.
Naqdi highlighted the importance of gaining experience during the prolonged conflict, emphasizing that Iran has learned valuable lessons in engaging with the American military. He noted a perceived weakness in the U.S. military compared to previous assessments.
Recent statements from U.S. President Donald Trump emphasized American control over the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway in the region. Trump underscored the U.S.’s naval presence in the area and dismissed any potential threats from Iran.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has been actively involved in facilitating peace negotiations between Iran and the U.S. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister met with the Iranian Ambassador in Islamabad to explore avenues for resuming talks. Efforts to extend the deadline for the June agreement have been ongoing, signaling a willingness to continue diplomatic engagement.
The conflict has centered on Iran’s control over the vital shipping route of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil supplies. Disputes have arisen over the implementation of agreements related to reopening the strait, with accusations exchanged between the U.S. and Iran.
The prolonged war has led to significant casualties, with fatalities reported in Iran and other affected regions. Iran’s military actions have targeted various U.S. assets and infrastructure across multiple countries in the Middle East.
Both Iran and the U.S. have escalated their rhetoric in recent days, with Iran’s security official emphasizing the closure of the Strait of Hormuz until specific conditions are met. President Trump has demanded compensation from Iran for historical conflicts and incidents.