Iran's Larijani says US underestimated Iran, got stuck in conflict
Iranian Security Chief Ali Larijani stated the US underestimated Iran by assuming it would collapse like Venezuela, but now finds itself trapped in a conflict it cannot control. Larijani made this claim during a live state television appearance on March 8, 2026. The tensions began February 28 when the US and Israel launched air strikes on Iran, resulting in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader and other top officials. The conflict continues with ongoing missile and drone exchanges causing casualties. Larijani criticized the US for failing to understand local context, leading to a stalled strategy.