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Iran Foreign Minister Zarif says Trump trying to fabricate pretext to attack Iran

Iran is preparing to hold events marking Soleimani’s death

IRAN-POLITICS Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif | AFP

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Thursday accused US President Donald Trump of trying to fabricate a pretext to war with Iran, adding that Tehran will attack Iran will defend itself forcefully. Zarif says this as the anniversary of US operated drones killing Iranian General Qassem Soleimani is two days way. 

"Instead of fighting (the novel coronavirus) in US, @realDonaldTrump & cohorts waste billions to fly B52s & send armadas to OUR region," Zarif tweeted. According to Pentagon officials, the military muscle-flexing is meant to warn Tehran, who might be planning to attack American interests or personnel on January 3, anniversary of Soleimani’s death. 

As Iran prepares to hold events to mark Soleimani’s killing, The Pentagon, on Thursday said the Nimitz aircraft carrier, which was off the coast of Somalia, would be heading back to its homeport. Days after Soleimani was killed, Iran sent several missiles at Iraqi bases housing US and other coalition troops. Trump, however, did not respond. 

“Iran doesn’t seek war but will OPENLY & DIRECTLY defend its people, security & vital interests,” Zarif wrote.

Hossein Dehghan, a military adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, wrote on Twitter, “I saw on the news that the Americans are on alert for fear of the revenge and have flown two B-52 bombers over the Persian Gulf”.

As per US intelligence, allied militias in Iraq and Iran may be planning attacks against the US forces in the Middle East. Officials at the Pentagon feel that the threat is being exaggerated. 

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