One of the most powerful figures in Iran has said that the US campaign of maximum economic pressure will fail — in a further sign that Iran’s hardline leadership is unwilling to compromise despite a deepening economic crisis.
Rezaei’s remarks are another indication of the control exerted by Tehran’s hardliners and their growing readiness to adopt a more offensive posture.
“We will see changes in the conduct of the war, in diplomacy, and in political and social affairs, and new capabilities will be brought into play,” he added.
Rezaei, who is an adviser to Iran’s supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamanei, said Iran will not yield to US pressure, adding the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until Washington meets its commitments.
Shipping data suggests that more crude oil is leaving the Gulf via a southern route close to the coast with Oman, a threat to the leverage Iran has exercised in recent months.
Rezaei was a senior commander during the war with Iraq in the 1980s — a foundational moment in the creation of the Islamic Republic. He was named as the new security chief this month in what was seen as a shift to a more aggressive approach to that under the late supreme leader.
In his comments, the most substantial since taking on the new role, Rezaei also claimed the US’ attack on Iran had encouraged countries to seek protection by acquiring nuclear weapons.
