A senior adviser to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has remarked that the American military appeared weaker than previously perceived during the U.S. and Israel’s joint attack on Iran earlier this year. Talks to end the conflict have hit a standstill.

Brig.-Gen. Mohammad Reza Naqdi, in a rare interview with Western media aired by PBS News Hour, stated that Iran has not yet achieved its ultimate goal in the war. Naqdi, who serves as the supreme adviser to the IRGC’s commander-in-chief, expressed confidence in Iran’s current and future success in the conflict.

Following a ceasefire breakdown and subsequent exchange of strikes between the U.S. and Iran over a two-week period, Naqdi emphasized the importance of the war for gaining valuable experience in combat against America. He noted a perceived weakness in the American military compared to initial assessments.

U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated assertions of U.S. dominance over the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing control over the crucial waterway. The conflict, which began with coordinated attacks by the U.S. and Israel on Iran in February, has witnessed fluctuating rhetoric from Trump between threats of escalation and prospects for peace.

In parallel efforts, Pakistan has been actively engaged in facilitating peace negotiations between Iran and the U.S. Pakistani officials have met with Iranian counterparts in an attempt to revive talks and extend the deadline of the mid-June interim deal. Talks have stalled primarily due to disagreements over Iran’s control of the vital Strait of Hormuz and accusations of non-compliance by both parties.

The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, primarily in Iran and Lebanon, with Iran targeting U.S. assets and infrastructure in various countries. The ceasefire agreement set a 60-day initial period, extendable by mutual agreement, to reach a final deal on Tehran’s nuclear program and the lifting of U.S. sanctions. Recent statements from both Iran and the U.S. indicate heightened tensions and demands, signaling challenges in reaching a comprehensive resolution.