Former Iranian Foreign Minister Warns U.S. Against Nuclear Use Amid Blockade Tensions

TEHRAN — Manouchehr Mottaki, Iran's former foreign minister, issued a stark warning to the United States on Wednesday, cautioning against any potential use of nuclear weapons against Tehran while vowing to dismantle the economic blockade currently strangling the nation. The remarks, delivered in a high-profile address in Tehran, underscored escalating tensions between the two powers and raised alarms regarding the risk of a broader global conflict.

Mottaki, who served as foreign minister from 2005 to 2010, framed his comments as a necessary deterrent against what he described as existential threats. He explicitly stated that any American attempt to employ nuclear force would be met with severe consequences, emphasizing that such an action could precipitate a Third World War. The former diplomat argued that the use of nuclear weapons would not only fail to achieve strategic objectives but would instead destabilize the entire region and draw in global powers.

Central to Mottaki's address was his commitment to breaking the economic siege imposed by Washington. He declared that Iran possesses the resilience and capacity to shatter the naval blockade and sanctions regime, asserting that the Iranian people would not be subdued by external pressure. The former minister linked the economic restrictions directly to the threat of military escalation, suggesting that the blockade is being used as a precursor to more aggressive actions.

The timing of Mottaki's statements coincides with heightened military posturing in the Persian Gulf, where U.S. naval assets have increased their presence following recent diplomatic breakdowns. While the Iranian government has not officially confirmed any immediate plans for nuclear retaliation, Mottaki's rhetoric aligns with a broader hardline narrative within the country's political establishment that rejects compromise on security issues.

International observers note that the warning comes at a critical juncture, as global markets remain sensitive to disruptions in energy supplies from the Strait of Hormuz. The prospect of nuclear escalation has prompted urgent diplomatic consultations among European allies and regional neighbors, who are seeking to de-escalate the situation before it spirals out of control.

U.S. officials have not yet issued a direct response to Mottaki's specific threats, though State Department spokespeople reiterated earlier positions that any use of nuclear weapons by any party would be unacceptable. The administration continues to emphasize diplomatic channels while maintaining its naval presence in the region.

As of Wednesday evening, it remains unclear whether Mottaki's comments reflect an official shift in Tehran's strategic doctrine or represent the views of a prominent former official acting independently. Questions persist regarding how the Iranian leadership intends to operationalize the vow to break the blockade without triggering immediate military confrontation. The situation continues to develop as diplomats work behind the scenes to prevent further escalation.