Iran Warns of Readiness for Protracted War if Negotiations Fail

An Iranian military spokesman has stated that while Tehran approaches negotiations with caution, it is prepared for a prolonged war should the current talks collapse. Mohammad Ekremnia, speaking on state television, emphasized that the existing ceasefire was secured due to Iran's resolute stance.

"Iran forced the adversary to accept a truce through its firm position. The foundation and focus of the negotiations are shaped by Iran's conditions," Ekremnia asserted. He added that despite this perceived strength, the country maintains a careful approach to the diplomatic process.

"We hope for the success of the negotiations, but in case of failure, we are ready for a long-term war," declared the army representative.

Ekremnia expressed deep distrust towards the opposing side, accusing it of unreliability based on behavior during previous negotiation rounds. He specifically referenced distrust of the United States, recalling the process surrounding the 2015 nuclear agreement.

The spokesman confirmed that Iran's military preparations are ongoing. "Our eyes are on the enemy, our finger is on the trigger," he stated, underscoring a state of high alert.

He also commented on a parliamentary bill concerning fees for passage through the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting that control over the strategic waterway, as decided by parliament, would provide Iran with an economic advantage in the conflict.

The current ceasefire was announced following a statement from U.S. President Donald Trump on April 8th, who declared a two-week agreement had been reached and framed it as a "complete and absolute victory" for Washington.

Tehran has presented a starkly different narrative, claiming the truce as its own victory. A statement from Iran's Supreme National Security Council described "an undeniable, historic, and crushing defeat" for what it called "the enemy's cowardly, illegal, and criminal war against the Iranian nation."

While initial reports suggested Israel had also joined the ceasefire arrangement subsequent clarification from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that any such agreement did not extend to Lebanon.