Iran’s newly appointed interim leader, Ayatollah Alireza Arafi…Photo /courtesy
NAIROBI, Kenya (IP)
Iran’s newly appointed interim leader, Ayatollah Alireza Arafi, said negotiations with the United States are over and warned of severe consequences following what he described as American and Israeli aggression.
In a strongly worded statement carried by Iranian media and widely shared on social platforms, Arafi said Washington had “crossed the red line” and would face repercussions for launching military action.
He accused the United States of escalating tensions beyond repair and dismissed diplomatic engagement as no longer viable under current conditions.
Arafi also issued a direct warning to Israel, saying its actions would not go unanswered and that it would remain under constant threat from Tehran.
He framed Iran’s response as rooted in revolutionary doctrine and national defense, insisting the country would not yield under pressure.
The remarks come as Iran’s leadership transitions under Article 111 of the constitution following the death of longtime Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Arafi is serving on an interim leadership council alongside President Masoud Pezeshkian and Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei until the Assembly of Experts selects a permanent successor.
The escalating rhetoric follows days of intensified hostilities across the region, including missile and drone exchanges involving Iran, Israel and U.S. forces.
Iranian officials have repeatedly rejected reports of renewed nuclear negotiations, saying any future talks would depend on what they describe as an end to foreign aggression.
Regional analysts say the interim leadership faces immediate pressure to demonstrate resolve domestically while avoiding a broader regional war.
Diplomatic channels between Tehran and Western capitals remain strained, with no public indication of imminent talks.
The situation remains fluid, with further statements expected from Iranian authorities and international leaders in the coming days.
