In response to recent claims made by US officials regarding Iran's missile programs and nuclear ambitions, Iranian representatives have strongly refuted these assertions. Esmaeil Baqaei, a spokesperson from Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, labeled the allegations a 'big lie' on social media, emphasizing that the statistics regarding casualties from unrest earlier this year were overstated. The context for these statements stems from earlier remarks by former President Donald Trump, who warned that Iran is seeking to develop missiles capable of reaching American territory.

Abbas Araghchi, Iran's foreign minister, elaborated further in an interview with Al Jazeera, asserting that while Iran does not possess the capability to strike the US directly, any military action initiated by Washington would provoke a response targeting American bases in the Middle East. This exchange of statements highlights the ongoing tensions between the US and Iran, as Trump reiterated that Iran would never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons, alleging that Tehran's leadership is once again pursuing dangerous nuclear ambitions.

These developments are a continuation of the deteriorating relationship between the US and Iran, particularly since the US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018. The exchange of accusations and threats underscores the fragile nature of stability in the Middle East and the potential repercussions if either side miscalculates their military or diplomatic actions.