Kazem Gharibabadi said, "If the conflict spreads, it will not be in the interest of Western countries, regional countries, or even the United States itself, and naturally, Iran will not be the only party that will suffer. This approach is at odds with the claims of someone who introduces himself as a man of peace."
He stated: "What is a priority for the Islamic Republic of Iran in the current situation is the resolute defense of our country and homeland, and we are not thinking of any other option now. We are fully determined to defend our homeland and people using all means. Of course, in line with defense, there is also the option of aggression, and it is not that we are only defensive, but we will act aggressively for defense."
On the talks with the U.S., he said: "Diplomacy has always been a focus of attention for the Islamic Republic of Iran. But since Friday and in the midst of the conflict, going to the negotiating table has never been our option; and that is while our people are under the bombardment of the Zionist regime and of course we are responding to it within the framework of the right of self-defense. Talks in these circumstances means surrender and this approach has never been and will never be on the agenda of the Islamic Republic of Iran."
Mahboubeh Habibi
