U.S. Preparing for War Against Iran Under the Guise of Diplomacy, Says Iranian Intelligence

Melbourne, July 18 — Iranian intelligence has obtained information suggesting that the United States is preparing for war against Iran under the pretext of diplomatic negotiations, according to a report by Iran’s state-run television channel, Press TV, on Thursday (July 17), citing a senior Iranian official.

The official told Press TV:
“Our intelligence data indicates that Washington is not pursuing peace, but rather using the talks as a cover to prepare for war. If that is the case, we see no reason to waste time on negotiations. Instead, we will focus on preparing for confrontation.”

The statement reiterates concerns that the U.S. is hiding its true intentions behind a diplomatic front.

Meanwhile, there are expectations that Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Steve Witkoff, the U.S. special envoy to the Middle East under the Trump administration, will soon engage in talks between Tehran and Washington.

Regarding the upcoming discussions, the Iranian official added:
“Before the talks, we must be assured that Witkoff is coming as a mediator for peace, not to escalate tensions. Such assurance is very difficult to obtain, but we are willing to give this process another chance and listen to what the U.S. has to say. Iran is ready to assess their practical steps in this matter.”