Iran has dismissed the significance of the US presidential election results, asserting that its policies and citizens’ livelihoods will remain unaffected. This comes after Donald Trump claimed victory, prompting speculation about a potential return of his ‘maximum pressure’ policy against Iran.
While Iranian officials have maintained a composed stance regarding the US elections, they have issued strong warnings directed at Israel. Tehran has vowed to retaliate for Israeli strikes on its territory in October, which resulted in the deaths of four Iranian soldiers. The Revolutionary Guards, Iran’s elite military force, emphasized their preparedness for confrontation, asserting that their depots are stocked with sufficient weaponry to counter any Israeli aggression.
The Iranian government has expressed concern about the potential for a pre-emptive strike by the US and Israel to prevent Iran from retaliating. This worry stems from a perceived threat of heightened sanctions on Iran’s oil industry, a policy that could cripple the economy. During his first term, Trump reinstated sanctions on Iran following his withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal, leading to a significant decrease in government revenue and a surge in inflation. The prospect of Trump’s return to power has already impacted Iran’s currency, pushing it to record lows.
The Iranian leadership’s stance on the US elections reflects a desire to maintain control over its own destiny. While acknowledging the potential for increased pressure from the US, they are resolute in their commitment to countering any perceived threats from Israel, and unwavering in their pledge to protect the interests of the Iranian people.