Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi clarified that reports in US media misrepresent Iran’s position, stressing that Tehran remains grateful to Pakistan and has never refused an invitation to visit Islamabad.

Araghchi emphasised that Iran’s priority is negotiating the terms for a “conclusive and lasting end” to the “illegal war” being imposed on the country.

In a post on X, he wrote, “What we care about are the terms of a conclusive and lasting END to the illegal war that is imposed on us.”

Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, speaking to Al Jazeera Arabic, highlighted Iran’s preparedness and defensive capabilities.

He described the conflict as “Israel’s war,” noting that the resulting security breakdown and losses have had repercussions across the region.

Ghalibaf said Iran was forced to strike US bases and assets in the region, saying they were essential to safeguarding the country’s strategic presence in the region.

He warned that any further pressure on Tehran would provoke a wide-ranging and robust response.

Both Iranian officials highlighted Tehran’s vision for enduring regional security, calling on Middle Eastern nations to protect their interests through bilateral and multilateral agreements without foreign interference.

Ghalibaf emphasised that the root causes of instability must be addressed and that lasting security should be established independently of the United States and Israel.