Iran Warns of "Widespread War" if Israel Attacks Again

In a recent interview with China’s state broadcaster CCTV, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made a stark warning about the consequences of any future Israeli attacks on Iran, stating that it would lead to a "widespread war." His comments were made during his first official visit to China, which took place from December 27-28, coinciding with his meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Araghchi asserted that Iran is fully prepared for any potential Israeli aggression but emphasized that diplomatic efforts would remain a priority. “We maintain contact with other Middle Eastern countries and continue to consult with our allies, such as China,” he said, underlining that such ties would help prevent future attacks. He expressed hope that diplomacy would be key to securing peace and avoiding conflict.

Araghchi's visit also underscored the strengthening relationship between Iran and China.

The Iranian foreign minister also addressed developments in Syria, highlighting the unexpected speed of recent rebellions. He called for Syria not to become a sanctuary for terrorists and emphasized that the future of Syria’s governance should be determined by its people. Araghchi added that Iran hopes to assist in stabilizing Syria, protecting all its ethnic groups, including Shiites, Sunnis, Arabs, and Kurds.

On the subject of Hezbollah in Lebanon, Araghchi praised the group's “resolute resistance” against Israel, asserting that despite the setbacks it faced from Israeli retaliation, Hezbollah would emerge stronger. He expressed confidence in Hezbollah's ability to rebuild itself and continue battling Israeli forces.

Araghchi also discussed the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, framing the ceasefire negotiations as a defeat for Israel. He noted that Israel, which had aimed to eliminate Hamas, was now compelled to engage in talks. He declared that Iran would support any ceasefire agreement as long as it was accepted by Hamas and the Palestinian people.

Iran Nuclear Deal and US Withdrawal

In addition to these topics, Araghchi expressed regret over the US’s withdrawal from the Iranian nuclear agreement, calling it a "strategic mistake." He reiterated that Iran was committed to resuming negotiations on its nuclear program, though it was unclear how the situation would evolve with the incoming second term of US President Donald Trump.

In another development, the Iranian Foreign Ministry summoned the Italian ambassador over the detention of Mohammad Abedini, an Iranian national wanted by the US for allegedly supplying drone parts used in an attack on US forces in 2023. Iran has denied involvement in the attack. The diplomatic tension comes after Italy had previously summoned the Iranian ambassador over the arrest of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala in Tehran.

The situation between Iran and Italy highlights the growing complexity of international relations in the region, as both nations navigate the complexities of foreign nationals' detentions amid political tensions.