By Micah Jonah
January 9, 2026
Iran is prepared for war if pushed into confrontation but does not seek conflict, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Thursday during a visit to Lebanon. His remarks came as regional tensions persist amid threats from the United States and Israel.
“We are prepared for any scenario. We do not want war, but we are fully ready for it,” Araghchi said at Beirut’s Rafik Hariri International Airport, underscoring Tehran’s stance that negotiations must be based on mutual respect and not on “pressure or dictates.”
Araghchi, leading an economic delegation on a two‑day visit, stressed that previous attempts by the US and Israel to confront Iran had “failed” and warned that any future efforts would face similar outcomes. He highlighted “growing threats” from Israel, pointed to attacks targeting multiple countries in the region.
While asserting Iran’s readiness for conflict if forced, the foreign minister also emphasized Tehran’s openness to talks including with Washington as long as they are grounded in mutual interests and respect rather than unilateral demands.
Araghchi reiterated Iran’s long-standing support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and said his visit aims to strengthen political, economic and cultural ties between the two nations.
