Diplomatic Engagement with Open Eyes
Regarding the recent progress in talks mediated by Pakistan, Baqaei clarified that while conclusions have been reached on several topics, an imminent agreement should not be assumed. He stated, “These developments, which have made news in the last few days, are the result of several weeks of talks through the Pakistani mediator. Some other countries also played a role during this period. Therefore, while it is true that we have reached conclusions on many of the topics under discussion, no one can claim that this means an imminent agreement is about to be signed.”
Baqaei further emphasized Iran’s strategic approach, noting, “Just as we have acted with authority on the battlefield, in the diplomatic arena as well, we will strive to protect Iran’s national interests with open eyes and keeping previous experiences in mind.”
Warning of Reciprocal Action Against Sanctions
In response to Europe’s recent move to impose new sanctions on Iran, Baqaei issued a firm warning, stating that the Islamic Republic of Iran is “certainly not empty-handed, and any hostile action will be met with a reciprocal response from Iran.”
He placed responsibility for the current regional instability on external powers, remarking, “Fundamentally, had the European Union adopted a responsible stance toward international developments long ago, perhaps some of the consequences that our region and the international community are facing today would not have occurred.”
Baqaei also highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, asserting, “Europeans must always bear in mind that the Strait of Hormuz was open before February 28, and it has only reached its current state due to the aggression of the U.S. and the Zionist regime against Iran and their destabilization of our region.”
Critique of Normalization with the Zionist Regime
Addressing U.S. President Donald Trump’s pressure on Arab countries to join the Abraham Accords, Baqaei argued that normalization initiatives fail to address the root causes of regional insecurity. He stated, “The core issue is that the Zionist regime is the primary and exclusive source of insecurity in the region. Through initiatives like normalization, one cannot render an abnormal entity normal.”
The spokesperson added that such projects impose an “unreal and inauthentic entity” upon the region, with repercussions felt globally. He pointed to the current volatile situation as a clear example of the consequences of actions backed by the U.S. and the Zionist regime, urging the international community to recognize the destabilizing impact of these policies.
M.Majdi - H.Hakimzadeh