Tehran, Mar 25:
The spokesman of Iran’s top military command said on Tuesday that its armed forces will fight “until complete victory.” The comments by Maj. Gen. Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi of the Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters appeared to be related to US President Donald Trump’s announcement that there were negotiations ongoing between Tehran and Washington.
Iran has denied that any talks are taking place, though its foreign minister has been talking to counterparts around the region.
Iranian state television quoted Aliabadi as saying: “Iran’s powerful armed forces are proud, victorious and steadfast in defending Iran’s integrity, and this path will continue until complete victory.” The general did not say what “complete victory” would look like, but it appeared likely Iran’s military was trying to warn against offering concessions in any possible negotiations with the United States.
Airstrikes and missile attacks intensified across the Middle East as Iran and Israel exchanged heavy barrages, while diplomatic efforts to end the war remained uncertain.
Iranian missiles and drones struck targets in Tel Aviv and across the Gulf region, while Israeli forces launched extensive strikes on Iranian sites and Hezbollah-linked infrastructure in Beirut.
Amid the escalating violence, Donald Trump said the United States was in talks with Iran to end the conflict. However, Iran denied that any negotiations were underway, highlighting deep mistrust between the two sides.
Tehran remains wary of Washington, citing past instances where US military actions coincided with diplomatic engagements.
Iran’s leadership struck a defiant tone, with military officials vowing to continue fighting “until complete victory.” At the same time, questions remain over who within Iran’s government would be willing—or authorised—to negotiate, especially as Israel continues targeting senior figures.
The conflict has had major global repercussions. Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted international shipping, driven fuel prices sharply higher, and raised fears for the global economy. Oil prices briefly dipped on reports of possible talks but quickly rebounded above $100 per barrel.
Pakistan has offered to host peace talks, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressing readiness to facilitate negotiations.
US officials reportedly agreed in principle to participate, though mediators are still trying to bring Iran to the table.
Efforts are focused on building trust and securing a pause in fighting, particularly to protect energy infrastructure and reopen key shipping routes.
Meanwhile, the conflict continues to spread regionally. Iran has targeted Gulf countries including Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, while Israel has expanded strikes into Lebanon, causing significant civilian casualties and displacement. Diplomatic tensions have also risen, with Lebanon expelling Iran’s ambassador.