Iran studying Washington’s response to latest proposal: Baghaei

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said on Monday that Iran has received the US response via Pakistan, adding that Washington is “accustomed to making unreasonable demands”.

He noted that the details of the points raised are currently under review.

During his weekly press briefing, Baghaei said Iran continues to deal with a party that “constantly changes its positions and introduces matters that could practically obstruct any diplomatic process”, adding that many of the issues currently discussed as part of a 14-point initiative largely repeat previous proposals, dismissing media reports and claims regarding the nuclear file and enrichment as speculation.

Baghaei said that, at this stage of talks with Washington, discussions are focused solely on a complete cessation and end to the war, stressing that Iran has taken and implemented its decisions clearly and will continue to adopt what it considers the most appropriate course based on developments.

He accused the United States of obstructing the diplomatic process and violating commitments during negotiations, while reiterating that Iran entered talks with full transparency. He further said that the Iranian delegation’s visit to Islamabad, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, reflected Iran’s responsible approach and its standing in international affairs, adding that “Iran has become a superpower.”

Baghaei said Iran would continue its approach grounded in rationality, decisiveness, and national interest, highlighting that any US commitment to a ceasefire must also extend to “Israel.” He also rejected reports suggesting Iran’s proposal is structured in phases, saying they are based on media interpretations and do not reflect official Iranian positions.

‘Iran ready to defend its interests’: Baghaei

On military preparedness, Baghaei said Iranian authorities are fully prepared to defend national interests, adding that the relevant command structures have clearly defined their position.

He said the United States cannot resolve the problems it has created in the region by repeating further mistakes, noting that the Strait of Hormuz remained open and secure before the recent escalation.

Baghaei said that the world does not accept US humanitarian claims and does not believe Washington can escape what he described as the “quagmire it created,” stressing that the United States cannot resort to threats or the use of force against the Iranian people. He also emphasized that those responsible for responding to unlawful actions are fully prepared to defend Iran’s national security and sovereignty.

Strait of Hormuz and regional security

Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Baghaei said Iran has proven itself to be the guardian and defender of this strategic waterway, and that recent developments were the result of US and Israeli aggression against Iran, while stressing that the strait had remained open and secure for navigation.

He called on the international community to hold the US and “Israel” accountable for their insecurity in the region, urging Washington not to further escalate tensions.

Baghaei added that shipping companies are aware that safe navigation requires coordination with Iranian authorities, noting ongoing contacts with Oman and other regional states to establish a framework to ensure safe maritime passage.

Regional relations and matters

Regarding Lebanon, Baghaei said Hezbollah is a source of pride for Lebanon and the wider Islamic world, adding that it is defending its people and land against “Israel”, stressing that any agreement aimed at ending the war in Lebanon should, in principle, include provisions for ending hostilities.

Baghaei criticized “inappropriate behaviour” by the United Arab Emirates, particularly its alignment and cooperation with the aggressors, saying it has contributed to regional insecurity.

He said the presence of US forces in the region has brought instability rather than security, and called for regional dialogue to establish an independent security framework. He also described the UAE’s withdrawal from OPEC as “unconstructive”, while reaffirming Iran’s commitment to the organisation.

Iran criticises US policies, highlights global diplomatic positions

Baghaei highlighted the strong strategic relations between Iran, Russia, and China, including ongoing consultations on regional issues. He also expressed concern over US actions in Latin America, saying they reflect a long-standing disregard for national sovereignty.

He reiterated Iran’s condemnation of US measures against Cuba.

Baghaei said recent developments following the war on Iran have exposed divisions among US allies, noting that some European officials have acknowledged the high costs of US involvement.

He urged European countries to reassess their alignment with US policies, arguing that blind dependence has imposed high costs and weakened international peace and security. He concluded by welcoming any constructive European role in regional security matters.