The Iranian army says it has become “stronger” and better prepared than it was when the United States and Israel launched their war against Iran in February, according to media reports on Saturday.
Iran’s official news agency IRNA quoted army spokesman Mohammad Akrami-Nia as saying that Iranian forces are “on the highest state of alert and are stronger than they were at the beginning of the war, thanks to their experience in direct confrontation” with the United States and Israel.
He added that the forces had gained greater motivation, commitment and self-confidence.
Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal reported divisions among US President Donald Trump’s advisers and allies over the options for dealing with Iran, including ending the war and continuing diplomatic efforts to reach an agreement, or resuming military strikes.
The newspaper quoted a White House official as saying Trump was in no hurry to make a decision on Iran, amid differing views within his administration over the next course of action.
According to US officials, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are calling for tougher sanctions on Iran and the continuation of the blockade imposed on the country.
Vice President JD Vance and US envoy Steve Witkoff, meanwhile, are seeking to support diplomatic efforts to reach an agreement.
By contrast, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper favor a return to military action against Iran, the newspaper reported, citing US officials.
Source: Reuters
