The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a 26-page open letter to US citizens, urging them to "wake up" and take back control from what it described as "corrupt politicians." The statement warns that continued US actions under President Donald Trump could trigger a massive economic earthquake affecting the lives of all Americans.

The letter, released Tuesday, accuses the Trump administration of misrepresenting the realities of the war, Iran’s nuclear program, and its control over the Strait of Hormuz. It asserts that the US failed to achieve its war objectives, including curbing Iran’s nuclear program, despite extensive strikes that caused limited damage to nuclear-related facilities and air-defense sites.

Distinction between government and citizens

The IRGC sought to distinguish the US government from its citizens, highlighting similarities between the concerns of Americans and Iranians. The letter clarified that Iran’s "Death to America" slogan targets the US political establishment, not the American people. It stated, "God will come to the aid of the American people if they decide to change course," arguing that the opportunity for change is strong as the US political system is at its weakest.

The group warned that continued US actions could trigger global public anger, threatening American interests and assets worldwide. This rhetorical escalation coincides with intensified economic pressure from Washington.

Diplomatic signals and economic pressure

Days before the IRGC's letter, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed Tehran's willingness to pursue diplomacy after Trump rejected an Iranian proposal tied to reopening the Strait of Hormuz. However, Araghchi added that Tehran is prepared for a possible resumption of the war and would resist any new aggression, even if it escalates into a "doomsday war."

Meanwhile, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Iran’s remaining oil exports to China could end within two weeks, leaving Tehran with little to trade. Bessent noted that about 15 million barrels remain to be delivered and that economic pressure has pushed Iran back toward negotiations. He also clarified that the Strait of Hormuz is already open, with 15 million to 22 million barrels of oil shipped through it daily, countering claims that Iran proposed reopening it.

Trump denied reports of offering Iran sanctions relief or access to frozen funds, calling the claims "untrue" and a "hoax." The diplomatic stalemate persists as Washington continues its Operation Economic Outcast to pressure Iran.

Trump stated that Iran is 'doing very poorly' and added that he does not know 'if they are going to give up yet', signalling continued uncertainty over the status of diplomatic engagement with the country.

Trump's remarks on Iran

The comments reflect an unresolved posture regarding Iran, with Trump offering no definitive assessment of the outcome of any ongoing discussions. His remarks indicate that the situation remains fluid, with no clear resolution in sight based on his public statements.

Trump's characterisation of Iran as 'doing very poorly' suggests a view that external pressures on the country are having an effect, though he stopped short of declaring any specific outcome or next step.