Why it matters:
The remarks highlight Iran’s dual strategy of rejecting Western and PGCC pressures while deepening ties with Russia, Belarus, and Egypt. They also underscore Tehran’s insistence on defending its sovereignty and framing Israel as the region’s destabilizing force.
The big picture:
Baghaei said every Iranian, regardless of political affiliation, is sensitive about national sovereignty. He stressed that Iran will firmly defend its territorial integrity and warned neighbors against allowing Israel to exploit regional divisions.
What he's saying:
Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei reaffirmed Iran’s sovereignty over the islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa, rejecting the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council’s latest statement as a repetition of “baseless claims.” He urged PGCC states not to adopt positions that benefit Israel, which he called the region’s main adversary.
Key points:
U.S. security strategy: Baghaei described it as “a naked declaration” of America’s long‑standing interventionist policies, placing itself as the judge over all nations. He noted the document makes no mention of Palestinian rights.
U.S. interference: He accused Washington of decades of attempts to meddle in Iran’s internal affairs, calling recent remarks by U.S. envoy Tom Barrack an admission of repeated violations of international law.
Regional diplomacy: Baghaei announced upcoming high‑level meetings with Russia and Belarus, as well as new political consultations with Egypt, and ongoing dialogue with Lebanon. He rejected claims of Iranian interference in Lebanon, saying Hezbollah is an independent actor.
On Israel and Azerbaijan: He warned that Iran will not tolerate violations of its sovereignty, including any use of Azerbaijani airspace by Israel.
Go deeper:
Iran Rejects PGCC Leaders’ Baseless Claims Over Its Three Persian Gulf Islands
Hossein Amiri - Mahboubeh Habibi
