Iran's FM says security lapse behind Khamenei office strike; Hormuz closure was prepared

TEHRAN, Iran — TEHRAN — Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the targeting of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's office during the 12-day war in June stemmed from a security breach that also affected decision-making in Iran. Speaking at a meeting on February 28, Araghchi said the breach, in which family members and military officials were killed, remains unaddressed. He added that Iran had prepared scenarios from the first day of the war, including a plan to close the Strait of Hormuz if Khamenei were targeted. Araghchi said Iran agreed to return to talks with the United States despite expecting the war to resume, in order to build evidence. He noted that the armed forces were not bound by negotiation outcomes and that Iran's military response began two hours after the war started. According to Araghchi, the decision to end the war was taken in smaller meetings. He defended the ceasefire, saying the 12-day pause allowed Iran to strengthen its military capacity, including missile system continuity changes during the eight-month gap between the two wars.