Iranian Source Says Revolutionary Guards Commander Holds Ultimate Authority Amid US Tensions
An Iranian insider close to the Revolutionary Guards revealed that there are no official negotiations between Iran and the United States, despite recent statements suggesting otherwise. Communication reportedly occurs only through phone messages between Iranian official Araghchi and US envoys, as well as intermediaries from Qatar and Pakistan. The source emphasized that Iran is adopting a hardline stance led by Revolutionary Guards Commander Ahmad Vahidi, with strong backing from Mojtaba Khamenei, who ultimately decides the policy direction.
According to the source, Iranian leadership believes they hold the upper hand and expect US President Donald Trump to refrain from any significant moves before the November elections. They view internal regime disputes as irrelevant and maintain a firm position of distrust toward the US, aiming to apply pressure to secure necessary funds. Mojtaba Khamenei supports Vahidi's approach, allowing him to lead and make final decisions regarding Iran's strategy toward the US.
This insight comes after Trump's announcement about resuming talks, which Iran denied, followed by Trump's angry response. The Revolutionary Guards' hardline approach signals Tehran's intent to remain steadfast and not show weakness in the face of US pressure, anticipating that Trump will avoid decisive actions until after the election.