Iran’s acting defense minister, Brigadier General Majid ibn Reza, said recent conflict had changed the balance of power in the Middle East and ended an era of military threats and pressure. In a post on X, he warned that the days of carrying out surprise attacks and escaping afterward were over.

He said Iran must be addressed respectfully, drawing lessons from thousands of years of history. He also said media propaganda could not alter the reality or outcome of a conflict. The remarks presented Iran’s assessment of the regional consequences of the recent confrontation.

Separately, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said diplomacy could resume if the United States abandoned pressure and coercion and returned to talks based on mutual respect. After meeting Qatar’s prime minister and foreign minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Tehran, Araghchi said regional mediation was important for reducing tensions. He said the United States must recognize Iran’s rights, build trust and honor previous commitments, while emphasizing a regional security system free from external intervention.