“If Trump intends war, why does he speak of negotiations?” Iran’s armed forces chief Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi said, warning that any battle with Iran would become a “lesson” for the US president and would leave him unable to bully on the world stage.

“If Trump intends war, why does he speak of negotiations?” Iran’s armed forces chief Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi said, warning that any battle with Iran would become a “lesson” for the US president and would leave him unable to bully on the world stage.

“He will enter a battle that will serve as a lesson, the outcome of which will ensure he no longer blusters on the world sta

Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, chief of staff of Iran’s armed forces, has sharply criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump, questioning what he described as contradictory signals between threats of force and talk of diplomacy.

Speaking at a recent military gathering, Mousavi asked, “If Trump intends war, why does he speak of negotiations?” He suggested that Washington cannot simultaneously pursue confrontation while claiming to seek dialogue, framing the mixed messaging as evidence of political maneuvering rather than genuine diplomatic intent.

Mousavi warned that any military conflict with Iran would carry severe consequences. He said a battle would become a “lesson” for Trump and would prevent him from “bullying” on the global stage. The Iranian commander emphasized that Iran’s armed forces are prepared to defend the country’s sovereignty and would respond decisively to any aggression.

The remarks come amid recurring tensions between Tehran and Washington, which have fluctuated between periods of heightened rhetoric and limited diplomatic engagement. While Trump has previously stated that he prefers negotiated agreements over prolonged conflict, Iranian officials have remained skeptical, citing past sanctions and military actions as undermining trust.

Analysts say the exchange reflects a broader pattern of brinkmanship between the two sides, where public statements serve both domestic political audiences and international signaling. Despite the heated language, observers note that both Washington and Tehran have, at different times, indicated that they wish to avoid a direct military confrontation.

Mousavi’s comments underscore the fragile state of relations and the persistent uncertainty over whether diplomatic channels can prevail over escalating rhetoric.