Iran's FM Slams Rubio's 'War of Choice' Comments on Israel
Synopsis
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi counters US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's claims about an Iranian threat, labeling the US involvement as a 'war of choice' for Israel and holding 'Israel Firsters' accountable for the resulting bloodshed.
Key Takeaways
Iran denies any credible threat from its side.
US involvement characterized as a 'war of choice' by Iranian officials.
Accusations made against 'Israel Firsters' for contributing to bloodshed.
US insists on the necessity of military action against Iran.
Impact on US-Iran relations and regional stability remains significant.
Tehran, March 3 (NationPress) - In a strong rebuttal to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's comments, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that there has never been any real Iranian threat. He criticized what he referred to as 'Israel Firsters' for the bloodshed affecting both American and Iranian lives.
On Monday, Rubio indicated that the United States initiated military strikes on Iran after learning about Israel's plans for action, fearing a possible retaliation from Tehran against US forces in the region.
“We were aware that an Israeli operation was imminent. We realized that this would trigger an attack on American forces, and if we did not preemptively engage, we would face greater casualties,” Rubio explained to reporters.
In response via a post on X, Araghchi remarked, “Mr. Rubio has confirmed what many already knew: the US is involved in a war of choice for Israel. There was never any credible Iranian 'threat'.”
He further attributed the loss of life on both sides to Israel's actions, arguing, “The bloodshed of both Americans and Iranians is thus the responsibility of the Israel Firsters. The American populace deserves better and should reclaim their country,” added the Iranian Foreign Minister.
Earlier, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reported that Israel was responsible for the airstrike in Tehran that resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with other senior officials, following intelligence that they were in a meeting at the time.
However, Rubio insisted that the Trump administration saw a necessary need for action against Iran, regardless of the events that led to the operation's timing.
“Ultimately, this operation was essential, no matter what,” Rubio asserted.
Additionally, he clarified that while the US aims for the end of Khamenei's regime, that was not the explicit goal of the current military operation.
Point of View
With significant implications for regional stability and international diplomacy. Both sides present compelling arguments, reflecting deep-seated tensions and differing narratives about the nature of the threats involved.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Marco Rubio say about US actions against Iran?
Marco Rubio claimed that the US launched strikes against Iran due to concerns about an imminent Israeli operation and potential Iranian retaliation.
How did Iran's Foreign Minister respond?
Abbas Araghchi criticized Rubio, stating that the US is involved in a 'war of choice' for Israel and denying any actual Iranian threat.
What was the context of the US airstrike mentioned?
The airstrike in Tehran resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader and was attributed to Israeli intelligence indicating he was in a meeting at the time.
