Iran Says It Remains Ready for Diplomacy and War, Rejects Compromise on National Rights

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei has warned that escalating regional tensions would benefit only Israel, stressing that Tehran does not want continued friction between two Muslim countries. He said Iran was ready to facilitate negotiations between the parties to resolve their disputes. Baghaei also criticized the restrictions and blockade imposed on Yemen over the past 10 to 12 years, describing them as unjust. He added that messages continued to be exchanged between Iran and the United States through mediators, while Tehran was reviewing Washington’s proposals without compromising on conditions related to its rights.

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held a telephone conversation with his Iraqi counterpart, Fuad Hussein, to discuss the latest regional developments, according to Iranian media. Their discussion also covered the deteriorating situation in Yemen and Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, amid broader regional security concerns.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Tehran was prepared for both diplomacy and war as it finalized its response to the US position. He questioned how Washington had violated its commitments under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, adding that Iran had continued participating in negotiations despite the alleged breaches. Gharibabadi reiterated that Iran was prepared to deal with any eventuality while pursuing a diplomatic resolution that safeguards its national interests and rights.