Daijiworld Media Network – Tehran
Tehran, Jun 28: Tensions between the US and Iran escalated further on Saturday as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi strongly condemned former US President Donald Trump’s recent remarks regarding Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump had claimed he "saved" Khamenei from an "ugly and ignominious death" during recent US-Israeli strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear sites.
“If President Trump is genuine about wanting a deal, he should put aside the disrespectful and unacceptable tone towards Iran's Supreme Leader, Grand Ayatollah Khamenei, and stop hurting his millions of heartfelt supporters,” Araghchi posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The reaction came days after Trump alleged on his Truth Social platform that he deliberately prevented US and Israeli forces from assassinating Khamenei during the 12-day conflict that began on June 13. “I knew EXACTLY where he was sheltered... I SAVED HIM FROM A VERY UGLY AND IGNOMINIOUS DEATH,” Trump wrote, adding that the Iranian leader did not even express gratitude.
Iran’s foreign minister hit back sharply, warning that such rhetoric only deepens animosity. “The Great and Powerful Iranian People... do not take kindly to threats and insults,” he said, while also boasting that Israel “had no choice but to run to ‘Daddy’” to avoid destruction from Iranian missile strikes.
The US recently joined Israel in launching coordinated strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites, though experts remain divided over the effectiveness of the attacks.
Meanwhile, Trump said he had been working on lifting sanctions against Iran — a key demand from Tehran — but halted the effort following Iran’s critical response. “Instead, I get hit with a statement of anger, hatred, and disgust,” Trump posted, urging Iran to return to the negotiating table.
However, Iranian officials have denied any plan to resume nuclear talks with Washington next week, contradicting Trump’s claim of imminent negotiations.
The sharp exchange signals continuing friction between the two nations, with diplomatic progress looking increasingly uncertain.