Mohammad Javad Zarif, Iranian foreign minister, accused Donald Trump of trying to fabricate a pretext to attack Iran. He then declared that Tehran doesn’t seek war, but it will defend itself forcefully.
Iran believes Trump is setting up a war with them
Iran’s former defense minister, Hossein Dehghan, also warned Donald Trump not to make New Year a mourning day for the Americans. Moreover, Zarif stated that he received an intelligence report that the US president is plotting to manufacture an excuse to wage war before the anniversary of military commander Qassem Soleimani’s killing. It can be recalled that his death caused great tensions between the U.S. and Iran early last year.
The Iranian foreign minister made the accusation via social media. On Dec. 31, he also directly tagged Donald Trump in his post.
“Instead of fighting Covid in US, @realDonaldTrump & cohorts waste billions to fly B52s & send armadas to OUR region,” he tweeted. Iran doesn't seek war but will OPENLY & DIRECTLY defend its people, security & vital interests.”
Mohammad Javad Zarif’s tweet came after two nuclear-capable American B-52 bombers flew over the Persian Gulf on Dec. 30. Non-stop flights to the region from US-based hangars were also detected. Moreover, it was said that this was actually the third time that American bombers were seen conducting long-range flights off the Iranian coast in just six weeks.
As per The Guardian, the flying of the bombers was for a “show of force to Iran.” Aside from the aircraft, a nuclear submarine also landed in the Gulf. Then again, it was said that the bombers have already left the area and headed back to its home port.
Trump’s warning as Soleimani’s death anniversary approaches
Donald Trump has yet to respond to Zarif’s allegations. But while he has yet to address the issue, he said last week that in case a fatal attack on Americans occurred in Iraq, he would hold Iran responsible.
“Some friendly health advice to Iran: if one American is killed, I will hold Iran responsible,” Trump tweeted after the US embassy in Baghdad got hit by rockets. “Think it over."