Iran’s Top Diplomat Labels Attack as ‘Failed Attempt,’ Accuses US-israel of Inciting Unrest

In a statement to the press on Friday prior to his departure from Beirut to Tehran, Araghchi assessed that the chances of a US-Israeli military intervention were “very unlikely.” He contended that previous efforts had already demonstrated their lack of success.

He expressed skepticism regarding military intervention, emphasizing that such actions have consistently proven unsuccessful. “Repeating a failed endeavor,” he remarked, “will not yield a different outcome.”

His comments followed several days of unrest in Iran reportedly backed by foreign entities, coinciding with threats from Trump to initiate military action against the nation.

Last week, a series of small-scale street protests were organized by shopkeepers in various Iranian cities, driven by concerns over economic instability. However, these demonstrations escalated into violence following public statements from officials in the United States and Israel. The situation was further exacerbated by encouragement from Israeli-affiliated Persian-language media outlets, which incited vandalism and disorder.

Araghchi likened the current situation to the economic demonstrations in Lebanon in 2023, noting, however, a significant distinction. He highlighted, “There is a difference. Both the United States and Israel have publicly declared their involvement and role in these disturbances, with efforts to escalate peaceful protests into violence and disorder.”

He noted that evidence of foreign involvement was apparent in the repeated public statements made by American and Israeli officials. Citing former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s remarks, Araghchi emphasized that a particular tweet from Pompeo stands as a significant example, indicating that the Mossad is allegedly playing a part in the unrest.

Iranian authorities have recognized the valid economic concerns expressed by peaceful demonstrators and have pledged to address these issues. At the same time, they have emphasized a clear separation between lawful protests and acts of violence allegedly incited by external forces.

Security and judicial authorities report the successful dismantling of multiple armed terrorist cells, resulting in the arrest of operatives with foreign ties. These actions come in the wake of riots that have tragically resulted in the deaths of several law enforcement officers.

Officials report that demonstrators have leveraged public anxiety regarding escalating living expenses and the significant devaluation of the rial—economic strains that originate from unilateral US sanctions imposed on Iran’s central bank and oil exports.

Tehran Mayor Alireza Zakani reported on Friday that on Thursday night, insurgents deliberately targeted crucial economic and public infrastructure. The attacks affected 26 banks, two hospitals, 25 mosques, along with several police facilities and fire trucks.

Iranian officials have highlighted overt encouragement of unrest from American and Israeli figures. Trump has consistently expressed support for demonstrators and cautioned that Washington might consider military action against Iran if those referred to as “peaceful protesters” were harmed.

These statements came in the wake of Trump’s seeming approval for Israeli military action against Iran in June 2025, which targeted the Middle Eastern country’s military, civilian, and nuclear infrastructure. The 12-day conflict concluded when Israel initiated a unilateral ceasefire after facing a robust counteroffensive from Iran’s armed forces.

Iran expresses its intention to establish optimal diplomatic relations with Lebanon.

In another segment of his address, Araghchi discussed the relationship between Tehran and Beirut, characterizing his latest discussions with Lebanese officials as “positive and constructive.”

A statement emphasized Iran’s commitment to supporting Lebanon’s full independence and territorial integrity, expressing Tehran’s desire to cultivate strong relations with Beirut.

Araghchi stated that efforts are underway by both parties to inaugurate “a new chapter” in bilateral relations, founded on mutual respect and focused on advancing the shared interests of the two nations.

He characterized his meeting with his Lebanese counterpart, Youssef Rajji, as “very amicable, open, and productive,” stating that both parties concurred on maintaining ongoing consultations.

Araghchi stated that both parties concurred on the perspective that the Zionist regime’s antagonism toward Iran and Lebanon is genuine and palpable.

The Iranian minister engaged in individual discussions with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri on Friday.