Tehran - ISNA - At the beginning of his Monday press conference, Esmaeil Baghaei commemorated the anniversary of the martyrdom of General Qasem Soleimani, noting that a dedicated program was held earlier today at the Foreign Ministry’s Center for Political and International Studies with the presence of the Foreign Minister.
The Zionist Regime Aims to Create Division in the Region
Regarding the Zionist regime’s recent recognition of Somaliland as independent from Somalia, Baghaei stated: "This recognition is completely meaningless, and no country has confirmed it." He added that a regime whose own legitimacy and existence are in question has taken this step solely to fragment Islamic nations and leave the region defenseless against Zionist ambitions. He noted that regional, Islamic, and African countries have unanimously opposed this move, proving that the Zionist regime’s nature is "anti-peace" and aimed at creating tension and conflict.
Welcoming Regional Efforts to Reduce Tensions
When asked about the Iraqi Prime Minister's remarks regarding hosting a dialogue between Tehran and Washington in Baghdad, Baghaei replied: "It is commendable that our friends in Iraq are concerned about regional peace and stability. We welcome the 'good offices' of regional countries to reduce tensions." However, he emphasized that starting a negotiation process requires all parties to adhere to the "etiquette of negotiations," and until that is achieved, speaking of a negotiation process is "unrealistic." He added that Iran remains committed to diplomacy as a tool to secure national interests.
The Communication Channel is Still in Place
Addressing reports that Foreign Minister Araghchi recently stated the channel with the U.S. was cut, Baghaei clarified: "Mr. Araghchi did not say the channel is cut. That channel remains in place, which is the U.S. Interests Section in Iran and the Iranian Interests Section in Washington." He explained that the specific channel between Araghchi and the U.S. Special Envoy still exists, but the Foreign Minister merely stated in that interview that there is currently "no need for contact."
No Negotiations Beyond the Nuclear Issue
Responding to the U.S. Special Envoy’s remarks at the Security Council regarding "zero enrichment," Baghaei described the statements as "completely hypocritical." He argued: "You cannot extend a hand for diplomacy while simultaneously setting an unacceptable pre-condition. We cannot determine the outcome of a negotiation before it begins." He reaffirmed: "The topic of discussion with American parties has so far been the nuclear issue, and we have declared that we will not negotiate or talk about any other matters."
Investigation into the Assassination of Afghan Nationals
Regarding the recent assassination of two Afghan citizens in Iran, including former official Akramuddin Saree, Baghaei emphasized: "We are sensitive to any action that endangers the security of society and will deal with it decisively." He stressed that the safety of everyone living in Iran—whether as refugees or travelers—is "extraordinarily important." He confirmed that security authorities are investigating these assassinations and offered his condolences to the families, stating: "We will by no means allow the security of society to be compromised."
This Item Is Being Updated