Why it matters:
The remarks underline Tehran’s dual-track approach of serious diplomacy and firm deterrence as negotiations continue alongside persistent pressure from the U.S. and the Zionist regime.
The big picture:
Iran has repeatedly emphasized that sanctions relief is the immediate priority and that external attempts to slow or sabotage diplomacy, particularly by Tel Aviv, aim to prolong instability across West Asia and serve the agenda of the Axis of Resistance’s adversaries.
What he's saying:
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said Iran entered the talks with a result-oriented mindset and considers time crucial, stressing that the earlier the unjust sanctions are lifted, the greater the gain for the Iranian nation. He said claims that Tehran seeks to buy time are meaningless, pointing to Iran’s readiness in previous rounds to remain at the negotiating table for consecutive days to secure national interests. Baghaei warned that if Iran faces military aggression, it will respond with crushing force, adding that the Zionist regime acts in coordination with the U.S. and would receive a regret-inducing reply for any act of adventurism. He identified Tel Aviv as the main source of insecurity in West Asia for eight decades and the driver of artificial crises surrounding Iran’s peaceful nuclear program, dismissing repeated accusations about an atomic bomb as fearmongering designed to obstruct diplomacy. Baghaei also said Washington must make decisions independently and not allow the Zionist regime to dictate U.S. foreign policy.
Key points:
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will announce details of the latest nuclear talks at the appropriate time.
Iran says public disclosure during ongoing negotiations could undermine the process.
Tehran maintains that dialogue remains the path to resolving disputes with other states when mutual respect exists.
Recent U.S. sanctions followed negotiations in Muscat.
Iran stresses that threats and pressure have never altered its strategic calculations.
Go deeper:
Tehran’s message reflects lessons drawn from past experiences, including previous acts of military aggression and failed pressure campaigns. Iranian officials argue that steadfastness has preserved national rights while keeping diplomatic channels open. Parallel regional engagement, from Oman and Qatar to the South Caucasus, demonstrates a policy of strengthening neighborly relations, building security cooperation, and preventing hostile actors from derailing emerging diplomatic opportunities.
Hossein Vaez - Mahboubeh Habibi
