World

Iranian Ambassador Says Strike on US Aircraft Carrier Was a Warning to Washington

Iran’s ambassador to Russia, Kazem Jalali, has commented on rising tensions in the Middle East, describing the reported missile strike aimed at the US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln as a message directed at Washington.

In an interview with Russian media outlet RIA Novosti, Jalali discussed Iran’s position on negotiations with the United States, relations with Russia, and the broader implications of the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel.

Cooperation With Russia

When asked whether Iran had requested assistance from Russia during the escalating conflict, Jalali described the relationship between the two countries as one of cooperation between neighboring partners.

“We are two friendly and neighboring states. What is necessary for cooperation is shared between us, and through that we support each other,” he said.

However, he did not provide specific details about the nature of that cooperation.

No Negotiations With Israel

Jalali also stated that Iran does not recognize Israel as a legitimate state and therefore does not engage in negotiations with Israeli officials.

According to the ambassador, there have been no mediation attempts between Iran and Israel through Russia. He added that Iran is currently focused on responding to military developments rather than seeking diplomatic mediation.

Talks With the United States

Regarding the possibility of renewed negotiations with the United States, Jalali suggested that such discussions are unlikely while Iran considers itself under military pressure.

He argued that previous rounds of negotiations with Washington had been followed by hostile actions, which he said undermined trust between the two sides.

Despite this, he emphasized that Iran has historically participated in negotiations over its nuclear program and maintains that its activities are peaceful and transparent.

Message Behind the Strike

Jalali also addressed reports of a missile strike targeting the US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. He suggested the move was intended as a strategic warning rather than simply an attempt to destroy the vessel.

The ambassador did not directly confirm whether Iran has the capability to sink a US aircraft carrier but indicated that the action was meant to demonstrate Iran’s readiness to defend itself in the face of what it views as aggression.

Regional Tensions Continue

The conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States continues to escalate across the Middle East, raising concerns about a broader regional war and the impact on global energy markets and international security.

Observers say diplomatic efforts will likely be critical in preventing further escalation.