WANA (Dec 25) – Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, in a recent address, analyzed the various dimensions of Western hostilities against the Iranian nation, emphasizing the necessity of steadfastness in the face of an ongoing “economic war”, while saying that resistance turned “Surrender” demands into “Ceasefire” during the recent war.

 

Referring to the failed attempts of adversaries to bring the nation to its knees during the recent 12-day conflict, Araghchi stated:

 

“They came with the expectation of forcing the Iranian people to surrender within a day or two. Based on false assumptions—such as the destabilization of the armed forces following the martyrdom of commanders or the despair of the populace—they sought to strike a blow.”

 

He added, “However, the epic presence of the people on the scene to defend the system, the country, and their dignity thwarted all these plans.”

 

From “Unconditional Surrender” to “Forced Ceasefire”

The Foreign Minister recalled the international pressures during the recent escalation between Iran and Israel, noting a significant shift in the rhetoric of adversaries.

 

“At one point, the U.S. President demanded Iran’s unconditional surrender in a tweet,” Araghchi remarked.

 

“Yet, through the leadership’s wisdom and the nation’s resistance, it reached a point where, on the twelfth day of the war, the Americans themselves sent a message to me stating that the Israel would cease attacks at 4:00 AM, requesting that we do the same.”

 

“This means the slogan of ‘unconditional surrender’ was transformed into an ‘unconditional ceasefire’ in less than ten days—a direct fruit of our standing firm, he added.”

 

Focus on Economic Warfare and Livelihoods

While acknowledging domestic shortcomings and management challenges, Araghchi called for heightened vigilance against new conspiracies:

 

Shift in Enemy Tactics: Having lost hope in achieving their goals through military strikes, the enemy has now pivoted to targeting the livelihoods of the people.

 

Economic War: What they failed to achieve on the battlefield, they now seek to realize through economic warfare and sanctions.

 

Government Efforts: The government is working with full force to implement necessary reforms, pass efficient laws, and employ capable individuals to improve the current situation.

 

Concluding his remarks, the Foreign Minister stressed that just as the Iranian nation emerged victorious in the military conflict, it will also prevail in this economic war through resilience and strategic planning, maintaining the nation’s historical spirit of endurance.

People attend an anti-Israeli protest after Friday prayers, amid the Iran-Israel conflict, in Tehran, Iran, June 20, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)