The Islamic Republic of Iran is preparing itself for the worst scenarios as the “clock ticks” for a probable American attack against Iraq, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hamid-Reza Asefi said in Tehran Sunday.
"The Islamic Republic of Iran is prepared for the worst scenarios. Thus, our plans have been arranged so that, God willing, the Islamic Republic will not face an unexpected situation or probable negative results (of the war)," Asefi told reporters, according to the official IRNA news agency.
When asked what Tehran would do if war broke out, Asefi, however, emphasized that there was still room for diplomatic alternatives and that Iran hoped the crisis would be settled by peaceful means.
"Diplomatic means have not been exhausted yet. There are still many alternatives which must be utilized," he said.
"That a war falls out or does not, depends on many factors," the spokesman said, adding, "We hope the issue is conducted towards a direction that it is resolved peacefully."
Asefi restated his country’s opposition to war, saying, "We do not accept any attack against an Islamic country." According to the news agency, Asefi also called on Iraq to cooperate with the UN weapons inspectors. (Albawaba.com)
