Iran Parliament Speaker Claims Asymmetric Warfare Victory After Ceasefire with US

TEHRAN — Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf declared that Iran successfully pushed back the United States in a recent war by employing an asymmetric warfare strategy, despite American superiority in financial and material resources. Qalibaf made the remarks during a television interview aired on Saturday night, April 19, 2026. S.

' Qalibaf asserted that Iran emerged victorious through meticulous planning and preparation.

Criticism of US Policy Qalibaf

Criticized the Trump administration for prioritizing Israel over America.

Naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz as a clumsy decision born of ignorance. Qalibaf stated that the Strait of Hormuz is under Iran's control and that about 20% of the world's oil passes through it.

He said, 'It is impossible for others to pass through the Strait of Hormuz but not us.

Ceasefire and

Negotiations Qalibaf Said Iran accepted the ceasefire because the United States accepted its demands.

He stated, 'Consolidating the rights of the nation must be our main goal. ' He described how the enemy, unable to impose demands through military power or ultimatums, sent messages through various countries after seeing Iranian forces stand firm. Qalibaf asserted that Iran stands firmer today than before the ceasefire and remains ready to respond if the enemy makes any mistake.

' Qalibaf emphasized no trust in adversaries, saying Iran's response would be swift to any aggression. He noted that war could break out at any moment and that armed forces are fully prepared. ' Qalibaf stated there is no difference between the battlefield and the negotiation table, and he is ready to give his life to secure the people's rights.

Strait of Hormuz Incident

Delegation against escalation in the Strait of Hormuz. He warned that Iranian forces would open fire at minesweepers if they moved an inch from their position. S. delegation asked for 15 minutes to relay the order to turn back after the warning.

Qalibaf said the IRGC Navy foiled an attempt to conduct minesweeping operations that violated the ceasefire. He stated that Iranian naval forces advanced to the point of confrontation, but the enemy retreated. S.

Military attempt to sail two Arleigh Burke-class destroyers through the Strait of Hormuz ended as a failed propaganda stunt timed to coincide with talks in Islamabad. The destroyers attempted transit but were intercepted and forced to retreat by Iranian naval forces. S.

Destroyers came within minutes of complete destruction after Iranian cruise missiles locked onto the vessels and attack drones were deployed. The destroyers spoofed their identity to present themselves as commercial vessels belonging to Oman engaged in coastal transit in the southern part of the Sea of Oman.

IRGC naval forces patrolling around Fujairah detected the deception and took swift action.

Recent and Past Conflicts Qalibaf

Referred to American duplicity during negotiations twice in the past year, including the war in June 2025 and the conflict in late February 2026.

He stated that in the June 2025 war, Iran had a delay of 14 to 15 hours in responding and attacking. In the recent war in late February 2026, despite the martyrdom of the commander-in-chief, chief of general staff, and IRGC commander, the reaction occurred in the shortest possible time. Qalibaf attributed this speed to the strong structure of Iran's institutions.

He invoked the legacy of Imam Khomeini and Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, stating that the revolution relies on institutions, not individuals. Qalibaf said the country's political and military structure proved its strength following the martyrdom of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution and top-ranking commanders. He added that the Iranian people rose to fill the void after these martyrdoms.

Military Achievements

Qalibaf stated that Iranian air defense forces successfully struck approximately 180 drones in the recent war.

He noted this capability did not exist during the previous conflict. S. F-35 fighter jet as sending a clear message. ' Qalibaf pointed to significant technical advances in Iran's air defense systems following the 12-day war in June 2025.

Public Support

Qalibaf commended the Iranian people for taking to the streets daily in solidarity with the armed forces for nearly 50 nights.

He stated that the people have been more steadfast than in the previous war. He said people in the streets were partners in the battlefield success and effective in consolidating it.