Monday, 25 May 2026
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi attends a press conference following a meeting with Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Moscow, Russia, April 18, 2025. Tatyana Makeyeva/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo
Iran FM warns against “threats and insults,” urges respect from US leadership
The Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, used his official X platform today to make a series of pointed remarks about recent tensions with the United States and Israel, calling for a change in tone from US President Donald Trump and reasserting Iran's resolve in the face of external pressures.
In a message resonating with cultural pride, the minister likened the “complexity and tenacity of Iranians” to the intricate craftsmanship of Iranian carpets, symbolizing the nation’s patience, hard work, and resilience. He emphasized Iran’s clear commitment to independence, writing: “As a people, our basic premise is very simple and straightforward: we know our worth, value our independence, and never allow anyone else to decide our destiny.”
Addressing President Trump directly, the minister stated that if the US leader was “genuine about wanting a deal,” he should “put aside the disrespectful and unacceptable tone towards Iran’s Supreme Leader, Grand Ayatollah Khamenei, and stop hurting his millions of heartfelt followers.”
In a warning to both the United States and Israel, the minister championed the “Great and Powerful Iranian People,” who, he said, had demonstrated their strength by making the “Israeli regime” feel compelled to seek protection during recent escalations.
He cautioned, “The Great and Powerful Iranian People...do not take kindly to threats and insults. If illusions lead to worse mistakes, Iran will not hesitate to unveil its real capabilities, which will certainly end any delusion about the power of Iran.”
The minister’s statements underline ongoing tensions and signal that Iran will continue to assert its independence and strength on the global stage, while calling for a more respectful approach from international counterparts.