Top security official’s comments are a fresh sign of Iran’s readiness to go on the offense

Top security official's comments are a fresh sign of Iran's readiness to go on the offense
August 24, 2026

LATEST NEWS

Top security official’s comments are a fresh sign of Iran’s readiness to go on the offense

One of the most powerful figures in Iran has said that the US campaign of maximum economic pressure will fail — in a further sign that Iran’s hardline leadership is unwilling to compromise despite a deepening economic crisis.

“The world has realized that (US President Donald) Trump’s bluster is nothing but empty talk,” said the secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Mohsen Rezaei, in an interview yesterday.

Rezaei’s remarks are another indication of the control exerted by Tehran’s hardliners and their growing readiness to adopt a more offensive posture.

“We will see changes in the conduct of the war, in diplomacy, and in political and social affairs, and new capabilities will be brought into play,” he added.

Rezaei, who is an adviser to Iran’s supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamanei, said Iran will not yield to US pressure, adding the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until Washington meets its commitments.

Shipping data suggests that more crude oil is leaving the Gulf via a southern route close to the coast with Oman, a threat to the leverage Iran has exercised in recent months.

Rezaei was a senior commander during the war with Iraq in the 1980s — a foundational moment in the creation of the Islamic Republic. He was named as the new security chief this month in what was seen as a shift to a more aggressive approach to that under the late supreme leader.

In his comments, the most substantial since taking on the new role, Rezaei also claimed the US’ attack on Iran had encouraged countries to seek protection by acquiring nuclear weapons.

“Trump’s foolishness in attacking Iran has increased people’s desire around the world to acquire nuclear weapons, particularly after they saw that membership in the [International Atomic Energy Agency] and the [Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty) did nothing to prevent a U.S. attack.”

Share this post:

POLL

Who Will Vote For?

Other

Republican

Democrat

RECENT NEWS

Egypt’s investment risk rating falls to lowest level since 2014, finance minister says

Egypt’s investment risk rating falls to lowest level since 2014, finance minister says

A closer look at the Strait of Hormuz after Iran issues new threat

A closer look at the Strait of Hormuz after Iran issues new threat

Study raises concerns over heavy metal exposure from popular fish sold in Egypt

Study raises concerns over heavy metal exposure from popular fish sold in Egypt

Dynamic Country URL Go to Country Info Page