TEHRAN: Spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, Esmail Baghaei, has said that messages are being exchanged with the United States through Pakistan, adding that any upcoming negotiations will aim at achieving a complete ceasefire.
Speaking at a news briefing, Baghaei stated that the exchange of messages has been ongoing since last Sunday. “We have received communications through Pakistani intermediaries, and our position remains clear,” he said.
He further noted a strong possibility that Iran may host a Pakistani delegation as part of the ongoing diplomatic engagement process.
The spokesperson added that previous talks held in Pakistan focused on key issues including a comprehensive ceasefire, removal of sanctions, and compensation for war-related damages.
Baghaei also remarked that the US and what he termed the “Zionist government” are hostile towards Iran, reiterating Tehran’s firm stance on the matter.
He clarified that reports regarding an extension of the ceasefire are not yet confirmed.
Additionally, he said that during talks in Pakistan, Iran demanded the restoration of its frozen assets, though no concrete outcome was achieved.
Esmail Baghaei has stated that Iran remains the guardian of the Strait of Hormuz, while strongly criticizing recent US actions as violations of international law and ceasefire agreements.
Baghaei described the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei as a “stain” on the United States’ record and termed Washington’s reported naval blockade as unlawful and a breach of ceasefire commitments.
He further claimed that China has agreed not to supply weapons to Iran, adding that he expects to visit Beijing in the coming weeks and expressed confidence in strengthening ties with President Xi Jinping.
The spokesperson emphasized that negotiations should continue through Pakistan, reiterating that Iran’s nuclear program is for peaceful energy purposes and that its rights under international law are non-negotiable.
He also referenced remarks by Pope Leo, stating that the Pope had rightly termed the war against Iran as unjust.
Baghaei concluded by asserting that the presence of US forces in the region cannot ensure lasting peace and stability.
