Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf said that if the memorandum of understanding is not implemented, it has no remaining value, and if Iran receives no benefit from the agreement, there is no reason for Tehran to continue honouring it.
Ghalibaf said on Wednesday that maintaining arrangements related to the Strait of Hormuz is essential for Iran’s national security, while the safe movement of commercial vessels remains a key part of the country’s strategic interests.
'US attempts to divide country'
Ghalibaf alleged that the United States is attempting to change Iran’s system and divide the country, but said Iran will not bow to any external pressure.
The Iranian speaker said Iran does not want war, but any aggression imposed on the country will receive a full and decisive response. He said the Iranian armed forces have complete freedom to respond to any aggression.
He said diplomacy and negotiations will continue alongside efforts to protect national interests, as relying only on war or only on talks would be a strategic mistake.
The Iranian speaker added that the United States wants to weaken Iran’s influence in the Strait of Hormuz, but Iran will not compromise on its national security and strategic interests.
In a separate development, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson said Tehran has no plans to engage in talks with the United States and is focused solely on defending the country, Al Jazeera reported.
Speaking to reporters, Esmail Baqaei said Iran will honour its international commitments only if the United States does the same.
“Our commitments remain in effect only as long as the other side fulfils its pledges,” Baqaei said, adding that Iran stopped implementing its commitments under the MoU after the US failed to uphold its side of the temporary agreement.
“After the other party violated its obligations, we also stopped implementing ours in areas where it was required.”
