Iran's Foreign Minister Mocks US "Operation Epic Mistake" as Oil Prices Surge

Tehran — Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned Washington on Monday, 9 March 2025, that Tehran is “fully prepared” to confront further escalation amid escalating tensions roiling global markets. Speaking via social media platform X, Araghchi stated: “Nine days since Operation Epic Mistake, oil prices have doubled whilst all commodities have surged sharply.”

He further alleged that “the United States is conspiring to target our oil and nuclear facilities in hopes of containing massive inflationary shocks.”

Araghchi stressed Iran’s readiness, asserting: “Iran is fully prepared.” He also issued a warning, declaring: “We also have many surprises that have been prepared.”

Regional escalation has intensified since Israel and the United States launched a joint military operation against Iran on 28 February, which killed more than 1,200 people, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to the Pentagon, over 50,000 American military personnel were involved in the operation, which was designated Operation Epic Fury.

Tehran subsequently launched retaliatory strikes using drones and missiles targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf states hosting US military assets, characterising these actions as defensive measures.