Mehdi Chamran, head of Tehran City Council, referring to clashes between the Islamic Republic and the United States, said: “We should not allow ourselves to be attacked and then respond after the attack.” He said: “If an attack can be assured, then we should take the initiative and neutralize it before it begins.” Chamran went on to say: “It is unfortunate for the American people that such a person is their president.” He added that the Islamic Republic should respond to the actions of the United States with solidarity, resistance, and attacks.