Iranian FM responds to CENTCOM message, questions US role in region

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has responded to a recent message from the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), questioning the role of the US military in the region. According to Mehr News Agency, Araghchi stated, "Has CENTCOM brought security or insecurity to our region? The answer is clear." He further emphasized that Iran's "powerful armed forces have proven that outsiders cannot even protect themselves." Araghchi also asserted that peace in the region "can only be sustained when it is comprehensive and inclusive, with no outside interference." The remarks come amid ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, with CENTCOM frequently conducting operations in the Middle East. The Iranian foreign minister's comments underscore Tehran's longstanding position that regional security should be managed by regional countries without foreign intervention. The report by Mehr News Agency added that Araghchi's response was directed at a recent CENTCOM message, though the specific content of that message was not disclosed.