Iran vows victory, rejects ceasefire in US conflict

2026-03-16 - 13:02

'Proud resistance' to continue In remarks carried by the Iranian student news agency, Foreign Minister Araghchi projected confidence about the conflict's outcome despite nearly three weeks of hostilities. "We are engaged in a proud resistance and will continue our resistance without doubt," he stated. "In the coming days, we will celebrate our victory in this war," the top diplomat added, framing the confrontation as one that Iran is poised to win through steadfastness rather than negotiation. His comments come as the US-Israeli military campaign against Iranian targets has entered its 17th day. No messages seeking halt to fighting Araghchi directly refuted speculation that Tehran has attempted to open channels for a ceasefire with Washington. "We have sent no messages and have not requested a ceasefire," he insisted, dismissing any notion that Iran is seeking to de-escalate through diplomatic backchannels. The foreign minister outlined his vision for the conflict's conclusion, stressing that the outcome must fundamentally alter the strategic calculus of Iran's opponents. "This war must end in a way that enemies no longer think of invading Iran and attacks are not repeated," Araghchi asserted, linking Tehran's military posture to long-term deterrence. Strait of Hormuz status reaffirmed Addressing concerns about global energy supplies, Araghchi reiterated Iran's position on the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which millions of barrels of oil previously transited daily. "The strait is open, and only closed to the enemies," he stated, confirming that commercial shipping not affiliated with hostile nations continues to receive safe passage. His clarification follows earlier announcements by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps restricting access to vessels belonging to countries participating in attacks against Iran. Conflict exacts heavy toll The US and Israel launched joint operations against Iran on February 28, a campaign that has resulted in approximately 1,300 fatalities, including former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Tehran has responded with waves of drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf Arab states, which Iranian officials describe as focused exclusively on American military assets stationed in those countries. As the war grinds into its third week, Araghchi's defiant rhetoric signals that Tehran remains committed to military confrontation rather than diplomatic resolution.