WANA (Nov 13) – In an interview following the U.S. elections, Abbas Moqtadaei, Deputy Chairman of Iran’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, emphasized that Iran’s foreign policy is driven by a commitment to securing its national interests.

 

“The interests of the Iranian people can be pursued across various fields, and Iran’s diplomacy is active. We engage in negotiations when necessary and refrain when it aligns with our interests,” Moqtadaei stated.

 

Highlighting Iran’s strategic positioning and robust demographic and geographic capacities, Moqtadaei contrasted Iran with Israel, noting that Iran is both geographically and demographically superior.

 

He added that Iran has achieved self-reliance in defense technologies, including missile production and satellite launches, as well as advancements in medical fields, demonstrating resilience and progress despite international sanctions.

 

Moqtadaei emphasized that in the current period following the U.S. elections, Iran is in one of its strongest positions in decades. He noted that “True Promise 1 and 2” demonstrate Iran’s advanced defense capabilities and readiness to respond to any threats against the nation’s interests—surpassing previous levels of power.

 

He pointed out that the U.S., having retreated from Afghanistan, has lost its standing in the Persian Gulf, is facing contention with Europe, and is in significant confrontation with China, making it weaker than in past decades. He added that this shift presents an opportunity for Iran to make strategic gains.

 

Moqtadaei continued, “Trump, with his business-oriented approach, knows well that Iran is not a nation to trifle with. Iran is not like Afghanistan, Iraq, or Libya, and American assets and bases in the region are vulnerable.” He asserted that the U.S. now understands it is in a “glass house” and thus exercises caution—a situation Iran can leverage to maximize its diplomatic advantage.

 

On the possibility of Iran-U.S. negotiations, Moqtadaei stated that Iran’s priority is securing the interests of its people. “The interests of the Iranian people are pursued across different fields, and Iran’s diplomacy is active.

 

We will negotiate when necessary and abstain when it is beneficial. Negotiations are secondary; protecting the people’s interests is paramount.”

 

He explained that given the specific traits of the U.S. administration, Iran is currently negotiating through intermediaries to ensure its interests are protected. If the U.S. takes steps that align with Iran’s interests, then securing these interests will remain at the forefront of Iran’s diplomatic agenda.