Iran Announces Comprehensive Response Plans to US Hostilities, Downplays Sanctions Impact
On August 23, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps spokesperson made a firm declaration during a press conference in Karaj, a northern Iranian city. He stated that Iran has developed detailed response plans for various potential hostile actions by the United States, with specific strategies to counter economic pressure.
US Economic Warfare Viewed as Fallback After Military Setbacks
Analyzing recent shifts in US policy toward Iran, the spokesperson suggested that Washington's announcement of launching the "toughest economic war" actually reveals its failure to achieve objectives in the military domain. From Iran's perspective, economic pressure has become America's primary tool after military options proved ineffective.
"The United States has been imposing economic sanctions on Iran for 47 years," he emphasized. "The current rhetoric about 'economic war' is mainly intended to exert psychological influence on the Iranian people, attempting to undermine our resolve from within."
Iran Prepared with Sanctions-Evasion Mechanisms
In response to US economic pressure, the spokesperson revealed that Iran has prepared multiple countermeasures:
- Maintaining international trade: Iran will continue and expand economic relations with other countries "under America's watch"
- Establishing bypass mechanisms: Developing various channels to circumvent unilateral US sanctions
- Reducing dollar dependency: Exploring alternative trade and settlement methods
Expressing confidence in Iran's economic resilience, he added: "We have no concerns in the economic sphere. The effects of our measures will become apparent soon, and the US will see that its pressure cannot achieve desired outcomes."
Strategic Adaptation in Protracted Confrontation
Observers suggest Iran's high-profile announcement reflects strategic thinking developed through long-term confrontation with the US. By publicly demonstrating comprehensive preparedness, Iran aims to achieve multiple objectives.
Firstly, stabilizing domestic public sentiment against US psychological warfare; secondly, showcasing crisis-management capabilities to maintain trading partners' confidence; and finally, sending a clear message to Washington that pressure tactics are unlikely to succeed.
The spokesperson's remarks also imply Iran may strengthen responses in several areas: diversifying energy exports, reinforcing financial systems, stockpiling essential supplies, and deepening cooperation with non-Western economies.