'60-Day Deadline' in Iran-US Understanding Irrelevant After US Violations: Spox
Tehran - BORNA - Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei addressed his weekly press conference on Monday, commemorating the anniversary of the return of proud Iranian prisoners of war (POWs) to the country.
"The return of the POWs to the country is a manifestation of human perseverance and the preservation of hope and dignity under the most difficult conditions," Baghaei said.
He added, "The honor and independence of Iran are indebted to the resistance of generations who were unwilling to tie or surrender the country's fate to the will of others."
Recalling the upcoming anniversary of the August 19 (28 Mordad) coup and condemning foreign intervention in internal affairs, Baghaei addressed recent military aggression against Iran.
"In recent times as well, enemies launched attacks against Iran due to a miscalculation and the illusion that they could drive Iran toward advancing their objectives and alter the country's destiny through pressure and intimidation," Baghaei stated.
He noted, "This miscalculation brought consequences for us, the region, and the world, and everyone witnessed that today's Iran—backed by an accumulated experience of independence and resistance, as well as a distinct society and capacity—stands firm to defend its sovereignty and knows how to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity."
Assumption of Captured Iranian Pilots
Addressing diplomatic engagements with Qatar and inquiries sent to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) regarding missing Iranian airmen, Baghaei clarified the timeline of Tehran's actions.
"While we maintain regular interactions with Qatar and they play a role in topics related to the diplomatic process between Iran and the United States, we must also state our concerns and considerations," Baghaei said.
He added, "Regarding the four brave Iranian pilots who were dispatched on a defensive operation to target the origin and source of U.S. military aggression against Iran, determining their situation is a serious demand. Although it may appear that the letter was sent after six months, we pursued the issue from the very day we were informed. This occurred in the early days of the war, and I was alongside Dr. Araghchi when he was informed of the incident, and tracing the fate of our brave pilots was immediately placed on the agenda. On March 15 or 16, we conducted our first correspondence with the Red Cross. Follow-ups by our embassy in Doha and our efforts in Tehran with the Qatari embassy started from those same days and have been emphasized in every meeting."
He noted, "As long as the condition of our pilots remains unclear, the assumption is that they have been taken prisoner. Therefore, we will use all our capacities to clarify the status of our three pilots. We also pay tribute to the pure soul of the pilot whose body returned to the homeland and was buried."
Parliamentary Bill on Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz
Regarding the Foreign Ministry's stance on Parliament’s draft legislation titled "Strategic Action to Ensure Security and Sustainable Development of the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf," Baghaei denied sending a letter of opposition.
"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not sent such a letter, and we respect the decisions and procedures of Parliament," Baghaei said.
He added, "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs considers itself obliged to extend all necessary cooperation to Parliament in legislative procedures, and we express our views wherever necessary. We have expressed our opinions regarding this bill as well. Regarding discussions related to Iran's sovereign rights over the Strait of Hormuz, the Sea of Hormuz, and the Persian Gulf, we have prior laws, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has considered both existing laws and current developments in the views it presented."
He stated, "Moving forward, we will continue the necessary cooperation and present our expert views whenever requested by honorable members of Parliament."
Factors Delaying Iran-Oman Strait of Hormuz Agreement
Outlining the reasons why maritime negotiations with Oman have not yet concluded, Baghaei cited three distinct factors shaping the extended timeline.
"One factor is the complexity of the subject. Keep in mind that insecurity in the Strait of Hormuz was imposed on us, the region, and the entire world, and the reason for it was illegal U.S. military action," Baghaei said.
He added, "For the first time, you are trying to establish mechanisms that both secure the sovereignty of the two coastal states and ensure the safe transit of commercial vessels in this waterway. Another factor is the multiplicity of actors attempting to exert influence in this process. The third and crucial factor is the destructive efforts of certain malevolent parties who have shown they never care about regional peace and security and prefer the region to remain in turmoil. Thus, these three factors have rendered the process somewhat time-consuming, but considering all these aspects, Iran-Oman talks are continuing with seriousness."
He noted regarding the draft joint statement, "Views are being exchanged, and both sides have shown they are determined to work toward drafting a mechanism that secures the interests of both sides and resolves concerns."
Fabricated Reports of Secret Arbil Talks
Responding to questions regarding American media reports alleging that Washington maintained unofficial contact with the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) via Iraqi Kurdistan to ensure support for negotiators, Baghaei rejected the claims.
"This news is fabricated," Baghaei said.
He added regarding alleged channels through Arbil, "This subject is part of psychological and media warfare tactics aimed at implying division among decision-making bodies in the Islamic Republic of Iran, and make no mistake, this issue has been raised out of desperation."
He noted, "Over these six months, it has been clearly demonstrated that an unprecedented cohesion and empathy exist among competent authorities in the Islamic Republic of Iran regarding issues of peace and war."
He stated, "The negotiating team enjoys the complete trust of all pillars of the Islamic Republic, including the country's defense sectors. For this we thank God, and certainly any decision chosen regarding negotiations will be made taking into account the views and considerations of all sectors of the Islamic Republic. During this period, it was proven that decision-making in the Islamic Republic of Iran is institutional, and competent bodies make the final decision considering all aspects."
Respect for Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity
Addressing a letter sent by Bahrain to the United Nations regarding his recent tweet referencing "a newly established regime ruling over part of Iranian territory," Baghaei clarified his position while recalling historical context.
"Last week marked the anniversary of August 14, 1971 (23 Mordad 1350), and one must also remember May 14 and 18, 1970 (24 and 28 Ordibehesht 1349)," Baghaei said.
He added, "In my tweet, I did not mention the name of any country, but if a country assumed itself to be the addressee of that tweet, that is a separate matter. I do not wish to enter the subject, but I repeat my statement that we respect the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries in the region, even the country that assumed itself to be the addressee of that tweet."
He noted, "To recall historical memories, I remind both the Bahraini side and our own regional historians that Resolution 278 was adopted in 1970, establishing a decision to resolve the dispute between the British government and Iran. It is very clear where the entire story originated, but I emphasize that based on good neighborliness, we respect the sovereignty of regional countries. The reason for raising these topics was the failure of certain regional countries to adhere to good neighborliness and their lack of attention to historical and geographical realities. Does placing your soil and assets at the disposal of the United States and the Zionist regime during Ramadan align with good neighborliness and respect for a neighboring country?"
He stated, "These actions are largely an attempt to escape forward. We cannot forget the events that began on February 28 (9 Esfand) and continue today, nor can we change the realities of the 1960s and 1970s."
Pakistan as Main Mediator
Addressing reports on European mediation efforts between Iran and the United States, Baghaei identified the primary diplomatic channels.
"Pakistan is the primary mediator between Iran and the United States, and Qatar is also making efforts," Baghaei said.
He added, "It is entirely natural for certain European countries to express their views and offer their good offices during contacts with us, but this does not mean we have a new mediator in developments regarding Iran-U.S. relations. Essentially, our issue with the United States is not a matter of mediation, but stems from the U.S. mindset, its miscalculations, and its insistence on methods and approaches that have failed hundreds of times. Yet the U.S. ruling establishment insists on testing those same experienced paths again, which will yield no result other than previous outcomes."
He noted, "Based on our assessments that the U.S. might continue its wickedness against Iran through various means, necessary precautions were taken well in advance, and the Islamic Republic of Iran will use all tools to thwart any new wickedness."
60-Day Deadline Irrelevant
Answering questions on the expiry of the reported 60-day timeframe under the Islamabad understanding, Baghaei reiterated Tehran's position on external pressures.
"We do not have a subject titled a 60-day deadline in the text of the understanding," Baghaei said.
He added, "It has been proven repeatedly that the Islamic Republic of Iran is not a party that formulates its policies under pressure, ultimatums, or time constraints, and we make decisions based on national interests and evaluations of what secures national security. What was outlined in the Islamabad understanding—which currently stands unexecuted due to gross U.S. violations—envisioned a 60-day period for discussions on two issues: 'sanctions relief' and the 'nuclear issue,' with provisions for extension if no result was reached."
He stated, "Essentially, no negotiations began because the United States engaged in gross and widespread violations of the text just weeks after signing the memorandum of understanding on June 18 (28 Khordad). Thus, the topic of 60 days has completely lost its relevance, and we remain focused on managing state affairs while our armed forces monitor every movement with open eyes and full vigilance."
He noted regarding regional diplomacy, "Strengthening relations with various countries is part of the Foreign Ministry's duties; we have this on our agenda, remain in contact with all regional states and relevant directions, and carry out our daily duties."
Addressing the recent visit of Pakistan's Interior Minister to Tehran, Baghaei elaborated on bilateral discussions.
"Travel between Iran and Pakistan as neighboring states is continuous," Baghaei said. "Pakistan's interior minister visited Tehran last week at the invitation of his Iranian counterpart, Mr. Momeni, consulting on bilateral topics and regional developments. Pakistan strives to utilize its capacities as a mediator."
He added, "This visit was a continuation of Pakistan's role as a mediator in negotiations. For Pakistan, as a party that played an important role in concluding the Islamabad understanding, this process matters, and we regret that U.S. breach of promise has once again damaged the institution of mediation—a pattern we previously witnessed with Oman and now with Pakistan."
Departure of French Diplomats
Elaborating on violations committed by staff at the French Embassy in Tehran and the subsequent Ministry of Intelligence statement, Baghaei confirmed administrative actions.
"Regardless of individual private personalities, what matters to us is the position expressed in the name of a government, and this matter is entirely unacceptable," Baghaei said.
He added, "French officials were expected to react logically and apologize for the actions of their two employees. They claimed these individuals were assisting Iranian civil society, a concept not recognized under diplomatic law. Insisting that these individuals were engaged in civil society activities constitutes an admission that the Vienna Convention was violated."
He noted, "From the outset, the French ambassador was summoned and an official protest was lodged. The two individuals involved left Iran, and we announced they would not be permitted to return. Naturally, relevant authorities express their views whenever deemed appropriate, and the Ministry of Intelligence issued its statement accordingly."
US Leadership Hiding and Quranic Reference
Asked about reports regarding Donald Trump's movement inside a supply vehicle compared to Iranian leadership, Baghaei quoted the Holy Quran: "He cast terror into their hearts; you did not think they would leave, and they thought that their fortresses would protect them from Allah."
"This development should make us proud, as the Iranian nation stood under the most difficult conditions," Baghaei said.
He added, "Iran's leaders, whether at their workplaces or in the trenches, remained where they naturally belonged, welcomed danger, showed no fear, and defended Iran's dignity and territorial integrity until the last moment. The 40-day developments, particularly the first day on February 28 (9 Esfand), will be recorded in history as a point of pride for Iran and Iranians."
He stated, "The situation of our opponent is clear; it is a party that not only committed illegal military aggression against Iran but also committed countless crimes. We will never forget the crimes at the Shajareh Tayyibah school in Minab, the stadium in Lamerd, Qeshms, and other atrocities. Those who committed these crimes know what they did, and this fear will remain with them continuously, as the Supreme Leader stated that criminals will carry the wish for a peaceful death to their graves."
Rejection of Western Human Rights Statements
Addressing joint human rights declarations issued by Western nations against Iran, Baghaei dismissed the claims as hypocritical.
"Western claims regarding human rights lost their color long ago," Baghaei said.
He added, "European parties possess no standing to comment or lecture on human rights due to their inappropriate stances toward crimes committed over the past two to three years in occupied Palestine, remaining inactive observers during overt genocide. They also adopted improper positions regarding U.S. and Zionist crimes against the Iranian nation, with some explicitly aligning with aggressors. Thus, claims of caring for the human rights of Iranians will not be believed by any sane mind and merely showcase double standards."
Relations with Taliban Government
On conditions for formal recognition of the Taliban administration in Afghanistan, Baghaei separated diplomatic recognition from functional ties.
"Relations between Iran and Afghanistan are good," Baghaei said. "We are two neighboring, Muslim nations sharing historical commonalities that must consider each other's security concerns and utilize commercial and economic capacities. Independent of formal recognition, we have continued our relations in various areas."
He added, "Recognition is a legal-political matter, and whenever a conclusion is reached, the necessary decision will be made. However, this topic should not prevent us from strengthening ties across various domains."
Tajik Ministerial Visits
Highlighting the recent visit of Tajikistan's ministers of energy, water resources, and transportation to Tehran, Baghaei noted expanding bilateral ties.
"The visit of two Tajik ministers was highly important, featuring productive meetings," Baghaei said.
He added, "Relations between the two countries are flourishing. Historical, civilizational, linguistic, and cultural ties should serve as a platform to solidify relations. This momentum started on a solid track over the past few years, and top-level resolve exists in both countries to pursue this path with strength."
Trillion-Dollar Environmental Damages
Addressing legal mechanisms to claim environmental damages from the United States resulting from marine oil spills, Baghaei emphasized historical accountability.
"Environmental damage inflicted on the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman is not limited to recent events," Baghaei said. "Over the past five decades, our region has continuously faced U.S. military presence and its allies, a presence that was certainly not for security. They consistently deployed weaponry and conducted drills, resulting in environmental damages amounting to trillions of dollars."
He added, "Over the past two years, this situation intensified both due to U.S. and Zionist attacks on Iran and the presence of U.S. forces. We will pursue these issues. Environmental harm is not restricted to Iran, affecting all Persian Gulf littoral states, as marine environments cannot be bounded. It is a shared responsibility for all regional states to remain vigilant and hold the United States accountable."
U.S. Shift in War Objectives
Commenting on statements by U.S. Vice President JD Vance prioritizing lower domestic fuel prices over Iran's nuclear program, Baghaei cited ongoing strategic confusion in Washington.
"This shift in priorities demonstrates continued confusion and proves that this imposed war had no basis other than satisfying the ambitions of an occupying regime," Baghaei said.
He added, "The war was initiated under the pretext of countering an imminent Iranian nuclear threat, a claim later rejected by the Pentagon itself. At times, they cited nuclear bomb threats discussed for 30 years—a big lie. If one war was built entirely on a big lie, it is the war imposed on Iran by the U.S. and the Zionist regime."
He noted, "They trapped themselves in a quagmire, forced to redefine their goals repeatedly to justify failures. Now their concern is reopening a strait that was open prior to February 28 (9 Esfand) before their aggression caused regional insecurity. The best course for the U.S. is to accept mistakes and avoid further entangling themselves and the world."
Regarding Donald Trump's comments on defense understandings between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, Baghaei pointed to shifting regional security dynamics.
"The most significant regional development following U.S. and Zionist aggression was that regional states realized the United States is an unreliable partner whose military presence acts as a burden rather than a security guarantor," Baghaei said.
He concluded, "These factors led many regional countries to conclude what we have stated for years: regional states must rely on themselves and establish an indigenous security framework through mutual trust."
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