Iran has signaled a potential shift towards a more aggressive military posture in response to the expiration of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States, raising concerns about a potential escalation of tensions with Washington. Brigadier General Yadollah Javani, head of the IRGC’s political bureau, stated that his forces were ready to defend the country, though he refrained from detailing specific offensive plans. The agreement, formally expiring on Monday, effectively collapsed after recent fighting restarted last month. Javani acknowledged that the enemy could potentially initiate a more forceful response, hinting at strategic surprises. The Iranian emphasis on deterrence against the US, following Supreme Leader Khamenei’s appointment of key military figures, has intensified, with the leader consolidating power through this shift. Khamenei’s recent remarks suggested a potential focus on preparing for ‘powerful offensive operations’ against the enemy, a reference to the US and Israel’s strikes in Iran on February 28. The White House has repeatedly stated that Iran was defeated in the war, referencing a naval blockade and attacks on about 50 cities in 15 provinces. Analysts are divided on the feasibility of a ground operation and the associated risks, with no recent indication of the US planning such an initiative. The Iranian government emphasizes that their hands are open to reaching the aggressors and that they will become more open through initiatives, referencing recent attacks on US forces in Jordan. Mohsen Rezaee, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, advocated for a mix of deterrence and offensive capabilities, suggesting the Trump administration might have considered a naval blockade to cut off logistical supplies to southern Iran. The IRGC has reportedly reinforced defenses and launched missile and drone strikes against armed groups in Iraqi Kurdistan and the Zagros Mountains. Bridges, roads, and maritime control towers have been targeted to disrupt supply lines. Army spokesman Mohammad-Reza Akraminia stated that the aim is to prevent any foreign troops from landing on Iranian territory. The IRGCI has also reported bolstering defensive measures and continued missile and drone strikes against armed groups based in Iraqi Kurdistan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs dismissed the MoU’s significance to the war with the US, stating the Islamic Republic of Iran is not a party to devise its policies under pressure. The Iran-Oman negotiations have been delayed, with the IRGC emphasizing that the Islamic Republic has not achieved any specific political objectives under the MoU, and that the two-month window to halt fighting was not explicitly mentioned. The Iranian government has not yet consented to a long-term diplomatic resolution with the US, and has not yet convinced the leadership to agree on a strategic arrangement. The parliamentary speaker and negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, emphasized the MoU’s role as a ‘document of pride and victory in the field of diplomacy’ and insisted that the Islamic Republic had emerged ‘victorious’ from the war with the US.” , ]}” ,
Source: Al Jazeera
