YEREVAN (Azat TV) – Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has strongly condemned what he described as “wholly unprovoked, illegal, and illegitimate” US and Israeli attacks on Iran, explicitly accusing former US President Donald Trump of transforming the “America First” policy into an “Israel First” agenda. Araghchi’s statement, made on February 28, 2026, via the social media platform X, comes amidst reports of continued hostilities, including a strike on an Iranian girls’ school that reportedly killed 50 people in Tehran.
Araghchi Condemns US-Israel Aggression
In a direct and forceful message, Foreign Minister Araghchi articulated Iran’s outrage over the recent military actions. He stated that the ongoing attacks by the United States and Israel were without justification under international law, signaling a significant escalation in diplomatic rhetoric. This condemnation underscores Tehran’s view that the current hostilities are not merely defensive responses but aggressive acts initiated by Washington and Tel Aviv. The minister’s remarks were shared widely, drawing immediate attention to Iran’s official stance on the escalating conflict.
“Israel First” Policy Amidst Attacks
A central point of Araghchi’s criticism focused on the foreign policy legacy of former US President Donald Trump. Araghchi asserted that Trump’s signature “America First” slogan had effectively morphed into “Israel First,” which, in the Iranian diplomat’s view, “always means America Last.” This accusation suggests a perceived prioritization of Israeli interests by the US, even at the expense of American strategic objectives or regional stability, according to Tehran. The timing of this statement, concurrent with reports of a devastating strike on a girls’ school in the Iranian capital, adds a layer of urgency and emotional weight to Araghchi’s claims, as reported by Middle East Eye.
Iran’s Warning of Retaliation
In addition to his sharp diplomatic rebuke, Seyed Abbas Araghchi issued a stern warning regarding Iran’s capacity and readiness to respond to the aggression. He declared that Iran’s armed forces are fully prepared to retaliate and vowed to “teach the aggressors the lesson they deserve.” This statement serves as a clear signal of Iran’s resolve to defend its territory and interests, indicating a potential for further escalation if the attacks continue. The threat of direct military response from Iran adds a perilous dimension to the already volatile situation in the Middle East.
The Iranian foreign minister’s pointed remarks highlight a deepening chasm between Tehran and the US-Israel alliance, framing the ongoing conflict not just as a clash of military powers but as an ideological battle over regional influence and perceived foreign policy priorities.