Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi stated that the country is fully prepared to counter any form of aggression. He made the remarks at a gathering of ambassadors and heads of foreign diplomatic missions in Tehran, according to Al Jazeera. Gharibabadi emphasized that Iran believes in interest-based diplomacy and continues to play a role in resolving ongoing crises accordingly.

He added that Iran has presented its plan to Pakistan as a mediator to achieve a permanent end to the imposed war, noting that the decision to pursue diplomacy or continue conflict now rests with the United States. Gharibabadi also said Iran remains ready for both paths to safeguard its national interests and security, while maintaining skepticism toward the United States but upholding honesty in diplomacy.

The report noted that the war, jointly conducted by the United States and Israel, began in late February and has been suspended since April 8.