Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf, the Speaker of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, stated in his second video interview with the people that Iran both fights and negotiates. He added: “This does not mean endless war or perpetual negotiation, but we are seeking to create sustainable deterrence.”
Punishment of America and the Demands of the Iranian People
Ghalibaf emphasized that the goal of fighting is to force the enemy to comply with the demands of the Iranian people, and otherwise, to accept defeat. He referred to the depth of America's hostility towards Iran and said: “The enemies have come to devour Iran and will not easily retreat from their greed and goals.”
Read more: David Hale emphasized the necessity of American participation in Lebanon
The Speaker of the Islamic Consultative Assembly continued by saying: “America must be punished, change its behavior, and understand that it must accept the legitimate demands of the Iranian people.” He stressed the importance of national unity and cohesion around the Supreme Leader, stating: “Social cohesion is vital for the country, and we must achieve victory in all arenas.”
Emphasis on Military and Diplomatic Power
Ghalibaf also emphasized that sustainable deterrence is not easily achieved and requires a combination of military power and diplomacy. He said: “We must become so strong that no one dares to attack Iran.”
He referred to the eight years of sacred defense and mentioned that despite the costs and numerous difficulties, Iran has been able to establish deterrence for several decades. Ghalibaf also pointed to the country's military power in various fields and noted that Iran's air defense capabilities and firepower have increased.
In conclusion, the Speaker stated that the goal of fighting and negotiating should be to change the cycle of “war, negotiation, and peace” to “war, negotiation, and deterrence” and emphasized that military victory should turn into a document of the enemy's defeat.
Read more: Pew's prediction of unprecedented challenges for polls in the 2026 midterm elections · 43 percent of Americans support the idea of 'Medicare for All'
