Iran's High-Level Officials Participation in Martyr Nasrallah’s Funeral

The Foreign Ministry spokesman announced Iran's high-level presence to participate in the funeral ceremony of martyr Seyyed Hassan Nasrallah.

News ID: 85753

Date: 17 February 2025 - 15:58

TEHRAN (Defapress) - Esmail Baghaei, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during a press conference held this morning, stated: "We express our gratitude to the great and wise nation of Iran for their excellent and effective participation in the February 11th anniversary ceremonies. We hope to be worthy of the great Iranian nation."

He continued: "We have witnessed many developments at the regional and international levels. Mr. Araghchi is currently in Oman. The Caspian Economic Summit is being held in Tehran. Today, we have the visit of the Sudanese Foreign Minister to Tehran."

Iran's High-Level Officials Participation in Martyr Hassan Nasrallah’s Funeral

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, referring to flights between Tehran and Beirut and the participation of Iranian officials in Martyr Nasrallah’s funeral, said: "We will participate at a high level in the funeral of Martyr Hassan Nasrallah."

He added: "We have expressed our positions. Good discussions were held between Mr. Araghchi and his Lebanese counterpart, and it was emphasized that Iran and Lebanon, given their historical relations and mutual interests, should make the best decisions and not allow third parties who do not wish well for the two countries and the region to influence them. The talks continue, and we hope to reach a reasonable solution that secures the interests of the people of Iran and Lebanon."

Baghaei on the Foreign Minister’s Speech at the Indian Ocean Summit and Regional Cooperation

Regarding the Foreign Minister’s speech at the Indian Ocean Summit and his meetings with several counterparts, as well as the call for strengthening regional cooperation to enhance maritime security and the development of Makran, Baghaei stated: "This was an important summit and serves as a platform for consultations on ways to strengthen interactions and relations in various economic and commercial fields among the Indian Ocean coastal countries."

He said: "This important coastline is our gateway to the world and holds significance for us. In recent years, significant efforts have been made to develop this region. For this to happen, we need both domestic and foreign investment, and we use such events to introduce the potential of Makran and the necessity of strengthening regional security with the participation of all relevant countries in the region."

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson added: "Without security for all countries, sustainable development will not be possible. The feedback we have received has been positive. Araghchi has had good discussions with his counterparts from other countries on the sidelines, and we hope this step will help expand relations with neighboring countries, even beyond the region, as part of the diplomatic apparatus's measures."

The Fate of the Syrian People Must Be Determined by the Syrian People Themselves

Baghaei, regarding Shibani’s remarks about receiving messages from the interim Syrian government, said: "The fate of the Syrian people must be determined by the Syrian people themselves without destructive foreign interference. Regarding bilateral issues, we are closely monitoring developments and tracking actions and statements, and we take steps based on the performance of the opposing parties. Iran, as a rooted and steadfast country in the West Asia region, relying on its capabilities and deep friendly ties with neighboring countries, uses every opportunity to secure national and regional interests and does not allow the mischief of third parties to affect the relations of neighboring countries."

Saudi Mediation Between Iran and the U.S. is Media Speculation

Regarding Saudi mediation between Iran and the U.S., he said: "We have also heard these speculations from the media."

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson on the Latest Status of the Case of Two Iranian Citizens Killed in France

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, regarding the latest status of the case of the murder of two Iranian citizens in France, said: "Supporting citizens abroad is our inherent duty. Several weeks have passed since this specific incident, and we expect the French government to provide us with information on this matter. What we have heard is that it is under investigation. We are following up on this issue through our embassy in France."

Putin and Trump’s Phone Consultation on Iran’s Nuclear Program

Baghaei, regarding the phone consultation between Putin and Trump and discussions on Iran’s nuclear program, said: "Naturally, we are consulting with Russia on various issues. The nuclear issue is one of them. In this specific case, we have followed up with our Russian friends and will certainly follow up on the discussions that have taken place."

On the U.S. National Security Advisor’s Remarks on Iran’s Nuclear Program

Regarding the U.S. National Security Advisor’s remarks on Iran’s nuclear program, he emphasized: "Over the past three decades, Iran has seriously adhered to its rights and obligations under the NPT, and everything being done as part of Iran’s peaceful nuclear program is based on Iran’s inalienable rights as an NPT member. We will not show any negligence in this path."

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson on Trump’s Threats to BRICS

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, regarding Trump’s threats to BRICS, said: "The formation of international institutions and multilateral organizations is based on the precise assessment of their member countries. An organization as strong and robust as BRICS, which has secured the interests of its members for many years and provided a platform, will not face problems. Certainly, BRICS member countries, recognizing their interests, will continue their path of cooperation more seriously than in previous years."

Any Positive Development to Stop the War in Ukraine is Supported by Iran

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, regarding negotiations on Ukraine in Saudi Arabia, said: "Regarding the Ukraine crisis, we support any positive development that leads to the cessation of war, killing, and destruction. We hope the conflict in Ukraine ends as soon as possible."

Regarding disagreements between the U.S. and Europe at the Munich Conference, he stated: "Disagreements on both sides of the Atlantic are their own concern. The Munich Security Conference was one of the prominent topics of these disagreements. The international community must strive to ensure that disagreements among various powers do not harm or destroy international structures. Iran is closely monitoring all developments."

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson on the Detention of Two British Nationals in Kerman

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, regarding the detention of two British nationals in Kerman, said: "As far as the Foreign Ministry is concerned, we have been informed of this issue and have coordinated for the consul to meet with their nationals. Regarding the details, since it is a judicial matter, I suggest you follow up with the spokesperson of the judiciary."

Is Trump Seeking Secret Negotiations with Iran?

In response to a question about whether Trump is seeking secret negotiations with Iran, he said: "You should ask that side."

Foreign Ministry Following Up on the Case of an Iranian Citizen Killed in Sweden

Baghaei, in response to a question about the latest status of the case of an Iranian citizen killed in Sweden, stated: "The Foreign Ministry attaches importance to following up on the rights of citizens abroad. Initially, through our embassy in Stockholm, we tried to obtain necessary information from the relevant Swedish authorities about the nature of this crime. We are in contact with the Swedish embassy and have requested that necessary information be provided to the Islamic Republic of Iran. We are ready to provide any assistance for judicial investigations."

Iran’s Consultations to Prevent a Resolution at the Upcoming IAEA Board of Governors Meeting

Baghaei, regarding Iran’s consultations to prevent a resolution at the upcoming IAEA Board of Governors meeting, said: "Diplomacy is an ongoing and regular process, and we, through Iran’s permanent mission in Vienna and our interactions with other parties, including at the level of political directors, present our considerations and discussions. These interactions are bilateral and influence the actions and reactions of the parties."

Deportation of Iranians in the U.S. is Unjustifiable Internationally

Regarding the Foreign Ministry’s reaction to the deportation of Iranians in the U.S., he said: "We stated our position from the beginning. From an international perspective, this action is unjustifiable and unacceptable, and it is also unjustifiable from a humanitarian perspective. Iran’s Interests Section in Washington has expressed its readiness to assist our compatriots. We are following up through our accredited embassy in Panama and the Interests Section in Washington, and we hope to provide any assistance we can."

Baghaei's Comment Regarding the Cancellation of Flights from Iran to Lebanon

Baghaei, regarding the cancellation of flights from Iran to Lebanon, said: "Our relationship with Lebanon is friendly, and we are trying to resolve this issue through good communication with the Lebanese government and people. The discussions we have heard in the media about the suspension of flights are not well-documented."

Grossi Should Comment Within the Framework of the IAEA’s Technical Responsibilities

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, regarding IAEA Director General Grossi’s remarks that time is running out to reach an agreement to curb Iran’s nuclear program, said: "The IAEA Director General should comment and act within the framework of the responsibilities of this technical body. Political statements are not helpful. They are considered beyond the duties and responsibilities of the IAEA Director General. We hope there will be a revision in this approach, and he will express his views within the framework of the IAEA’s statute and relevant laws."

U.S. Statements on Negotiations Cannot Be Taken Seriously

Baghaei, regarding the U.S. representative in the Middle East’s remarks about readiness to negotiate with Iran, added: "These statements cannot be taken seriously because words must match actions. You cannot threaten to destroy on one hand and claim to support dialogue and talks on the other. These statements are inconsistent with actions and full of contradictions, and we do not accept them."

Iran’s Relations Will Continue Without Being Affected by Destructive Factors

Regarding media speculation about China’s refusal to deliver oil shipments, he said: "Iran-China relations are strong. These relations are important historically and in terms of mutual interests, and both countries are aware of their mutual interests. These relations will continue without being affected by destructive third-party factors."

Qatar’s Emir is Not Carrying a Message from the U.S.

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, regarding the visit of Qatar’s Emir and whether he is carrying a message from the U.S., said: "No."

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson on the First Conference of Afghan Elites in Iran

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, regarding the first conference of Afghan elites in Iran, said: "Part of the spokesperson’s job is public and cultural diplomacy. We have good interactions with relevant authorities in this regard and help to utilize the capacity of Afghan elites for fruitful contributions and assistance to Afghanistan’s development, as well as for use in the host society."

Regarding Iran’s water rights from Afghanistan, he said: "We consider technical issues. What was quoted from our ambassador in Kabul was not accurate. What he said was that in our interactions with Afghan parties, we will not compromise on resolving the water rights issue. We have a specific agreement on the Helmand River. This is a fixed issue with Afghanistan."

Saei’s Appointment Reflects the Strong Presence of Women in the Foreign Ministry

Baghaei, regarding the appointment of Ms. Saei as an advisor on women’s affairs to the Foreign Minister, said: "This appointment reflects the strong presence of women in the Foreign Ministry. Her responsibilities include facilitating the presence of women in the diplomatic apparatus and liaising with other relevant institutions that are responsible for promoting the status of women at managerial and governmental levels in the country."

We Have Not Lost Anything by Not Attending the Munich Conference

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, regarding Iran’s absence from the Munich Security Conference, stated: "You see that Mr. Araghchi is currently in Muscat, and his presence shows that the importance of this summit is greater for us than Munich. Iran’s absence from such meetings deprives them of the presence of an active and important player like Iran. The Munich Conference has mainly focused on disputes and security issues between the U.S. and Europe, and I do not think we have lost anything by not attending this conference. Such conferences have, in recent years, somewhat lost their primary function and have become political tools for pressure and possibly rewarding certain countries and actors that are of interest to the organizers of those meetings."

Baghaei's Point of View on the U.S. Plan to Forcibly Displace Gazans

Baghaei, regarding the U.S. plan to forcibly displace Gazans, said: "Sixteen months of genocide in Gaza, supported by the U.S. and some Western countries, failed to remove Gazans from their ancestral homes. The people of Gaza have shown they are rooted in their land and will not allow crimes against humanity to take away this natural right. The U.S. plan pursues the same goal of ethnic cleansing and the eradication of Palestine. This plan is unacceptable from a humanitarian, legal, and geopolitical perspective. Iran has called for an extraordinary meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation member states, which will be held in mid-February.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson on the Caspian Littoral States Summit

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, regarding the Caspian Littoral States Summit, said: "This summit will be at the level of prime ministers of the five Caspian coastal countries, with Tajikistan also participating. The focus of this meeting is on the economy. Strengthening economic and commercial cooperation in energy and the environment is on the agenda, and it will be hosted by the First Vice President in the form of several specialized sessions."

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson’s Reaction to Zionist Regime’s Threats Against Iran

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, reacting to the Zionist regime’s threats against Iran, stated: "In a world where the rule of law is the basis of action, such threats are a clear violation of international law, and those making such threats must be held accountable. Threatening others not only violates the UN Charter but also deserves the response that they cannot do anything."

Baghaei's Comment on Yemen’s Actions Against the Zionist Regime in Defense of Palestine

Baghaei, regarding Yemen’s actions against the Zionist regime in defense of Palestine, said: "All those who are concerned about Palestine and opposed the genocide in Gaza from the beginning ultimately care about security and stability in the region. The accusations against Yemen are baseless, and the root of the problems is the continuation of occupation and genocide in occupied Palestine, which unfortunately is manifesting itself. The plan they want to advance will certainly face opposition from the region and the Palestinians themselves."

On Russian Mediation Between Iran and Syria

Regarding Russian mediation between Iran and Syria, he said: "This is not new. We have said that we are in contact with Syria through friends. We have been in contact with various countries and parties. To take appropriate steps, we must have an assessment."

Baghaei's Words About a New Round of Talks Between Iran and European Countries

Baghaei, regarding a new round of talks between Iran and European countries, said: "Political directors of three European countries and the European coordinator are in contact with the Deputy for Political and International Affairs, and we are consulting on the time and place of the talks."

About U.S. Threats Against South Africa

Regarding U.S. threats against South Africa, he added: "There is no doubt that from the beginning of the issue, the U.S. and Israel have exerted significant pressure to disrupt the judicial process. This approach has been criticized as it amounts to supporting international crimes. On the other hand, South Africa and other countries that have taken this path have done so based on a sense of responsibility, and I do not think these pressures will cause these governments to abandon their principled path and beliefs. Just yesterday, the African Union summit was held, and most of them called for accelerating the prosecution of the regime’s crimes and requested the suspension of normalization with the Zionist regime. This is an international demand, and this deeply rooted demand will not be undermined by intimidation."

ICAO Should Not Allow Civil Aviation to Be Threatened by the Zionist Regime

Regarding the Zionist regime’s disruption of aviation security, he said: "In the spokesperson’s statement, we emphasized the regime’s threats against civil aviation, and ICAO should not allow civil aviation to be threatened by the regime."

Enhancing Trade Relations with Saudi Arabia

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, regarding the enhancement of trade relations with Saudi Arabia, said: "The development of economic relations requires the creation of a political environment and mutual trust, which has progressed well over the past two years. The level of diplomatic interactions and other areas between the two countries has progressed according to the desired process. This is one of the serious topics on the agenda."