Tensions between Iran and the United States have escalated after Iranian leaders condemned former U.S. President Donald Trump over remarks he made during his tour of the Middle East.
In a speech on Saturday in Tehran, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, described Trump’s statements as “a disgrace” and unworthy of response. “The level of those remarks is so low that they are a disgrace to the one who uttered them and to the American nation,” he said, as crowds chanted “Death to America”.
Trump had praised Arab nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE for their development, while mocking Iran for “collapsing landmarks” and poor governance. He also blamed Iran for regional instability and supported Israel’s actions in Gaza, calling Iran’s support for Syria a source of “misery and death”.
In response, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused Trump of hypocrisy. “He speaks of peace while backing genocide in Gaza. Which of his words should we believe?” he asked while addressing navy officers.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed Trump’s comments as “deceptive,” saying U.S. policies including sanctions and support for Israel are to blame for suffering in the region. Other Iranian leaders, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and IRGC Commander Hossein Salami, also issued strong rebukes.
The backlash grew stronger after Trump hinted he may start referring to the “Persian Gulf” as the “Arabian Gulf,” a move that drew widespread condemnation from Iranians.
Despite the war of words, both Iran and the U.S. claim they are open to a deal to reduce nuclear tensions. However, negotiations remain stuck.
Trump said Iran has been offered a fast-track deal, but Araghchi denied any written proposal had been made. “There is no scenario in which Iran gives up its right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes,” he posted on social media.
Senior nuclear negotiator Kazem Gharibabadi echoed that view, saying Iran’s right to enrichment was a “red line” that would not be crossed.
