We Do Not Seek War, But Will Respond Painfully to Any Military Action

According to Rokna, Kazem Gharibabadi, in a post on the social media platform X, outlined the main points of his remarks at the briefing with foreign media representatives held on 8 Bahman at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasizing: “Iran’s unreasonable and obstinate adversaries failed during the military aggression in Khordad, as well as in attempts to create domestic unrest and insecurity. In the third stage, involving the mobilization of troops and military equipment in the region and threats of military action, they will undoubtedly also fail.”

He stressed that the Islamic Republic of Iran has never been and will never be the initiator of war, adding: “We do not seek war, but we know very well how to defend our country and our people. Iran’s response to any military action will be decisive, painful, and regrettable for the aggressor, and even limited actions will be met with a strong reaction.”

Referring to the history of hostile actions by Iran’s adversaries, Gharibabadi noted: “War, sanctions, threats, sabotage, and assassination have been tools repeatedly tested by our enemies, but they have failed to achieve their objectives and have been defeated at every stage. We hope that this time, by understanding reality, they will learn from past mistakes and speak to Iran and the Iranian people with respect.”

Regarding the status of talks with the United States, he stated: “At present, no direct negotiations with the U.S. are underway, although messages are being exchanged through intermediaries. If the American side claims to be negotiating, it must first abandon its policy of threats, and the outcomes of any negotiations will not be predetermined.”

The official concluded by emphasizing: “In situations where military threats are raised, the top priority of the Islamic Republic of Iran is to maintain full readiness to defend the country. Even if conditions for negotiation exist, given the history of U.S. deception, Tehran will always maintain the highest level of defensive preparedness."