Iran's Rouhani warns Trump: 'War with Iran mother of all wars'

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Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Sunday warned the US against any conflict with Iran, saying war with his country will be the mother of all wars.

Iran faces increased US pressure and looming sanctions after Trump’s decision to withdraw the US from a 2015 international deal over Iran’s nuclear program.

'Don’t play with lion’s tail'

Addressing a gathering of Iranian diplomats, Rouhani said, “Mr. Trump, don’t play with the lion’s tail, this would only lead to regret,” the state news agency IRNA reported.

"The Americans should learn very well that peace with Iran is the mother of all peace and war with Iran is the mother of all wars," Rouhani said.

"You are not in a position to incite the Iranian nation against Iran’s security and interests," Rouhani added.

Hardline Iranian demonstrators burn representations of the US flag during a gathering in front of the former US Embassy in Tehran, reacting to President Donald Trump's decision to pull out of the nuclear deal and renew sanctions on Iran, May 9, 2018. /AP Photo

Vow to 'certainly' defeat US

Following US President Donald Trump's decision to quit the historic Iran nuclear pact on May 8, the US vowed to re-impose sanctions lifted under the accord against Iran and inflict punishments on nations that have business links with the Islamic country.

The Iranians described the US move as an economic war. Rouhani said such threats against Iran would have adverse effects, according to reports.

"Threats will further unite us," he said, vowing to "certainly" defeat the US. "That will carry some costs for us, but the benefits will be greater," Rouhani added.

Trump takes offensive measures

The Trump administration has launched an offensive of speeches and online communications meant to foment unrest and help pressure Iran to end its nuclear program and its support of militant groups, US officials familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Current and former US officials said the campaign paints Iranian leaders in a harsh light, at times using information that is exaggerated or contradicts other official pronouncements, including comments by previous administrations.

(Cover: File photo of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani /AP Photo)

(With inputs from agencies)

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