In an interview with CNN in Tehran, Qalibaf said that while Tehran was open to negotiations, he did not think that was “the kind of talk the president of the United States is after; he just wants to impose (his will on others).”

Qalibaf’s interview came amid a buildup of US forces in the Middle East and threats by US President Donald Trump of possible military action against Iran, CNN reported.

Pointing to the recent violent riots in Iran, the Parliament speaker said that foreign actors were to blame for a “scheme that was designed entirely outside the country.”

Promising swift prosecution of those involved, Qalibaf warned that the government would “never back down from seeking revenge for the blood” of the nearly 300 security officers martyred in the unrest.

He stated that “there are economic woes inside the country, some of which might have been due to mismanagement in the country”, blaming this on the “tyrannical pressures” of US sanctions.

Regarding the buildup of US forces in the region, Qalibaf warned Washington that Iran would retaliate if it were attacked, putting thousands of American servicemen at risk.

“Maybe Mr. Trump can start a war, but he doesn’t have control over (how it ends),” he said.