Iran Says It Does Not Seek War but Will Respond Decisively to Any Aggression

TEHRAN, IRAN: Iran does not seek war but will deliver a decisive response to any act of aggression against the country, Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has said, warning that an escalation of the ongoing conflict could have consequences beyond Iran and West Asia.

According to Iran’s ISNA news agency, Gharibabadi made the remarks while addressing a summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA).

The Iranian official said Tehran had consistently sought friendly relations with neighbouring countries, while maintaining its right to defend itself against threats.

Iran Reiterates Right to Self-Defence

Gharibabadi said Iran had the right to take necessary measures to defend itself, counter threats and address their sources.

He stressed that although Tehran did not seek conflict, any aggression against the country would be met with a firm and decisive response.

The statement combines Iran’s stated preference for regional cooperation with its insistence on maintaining the ability to respond to security threats.

Warning of Wider Regional Consequences

The deputy foreign minister also cautioned that the consequences of a continued or intensified conflict would not necessarily remain confined to Iran and West Asia.

He warned that a further escalation could affect other regions, raising concerns about the broader international implications of continued hostilities.

The statement did not specify which countries or regions could be affected, nor did it outline particular military measures that Iran might take in response to a future attack.

Call for Neighbourly Relations Amid Tensions

Gharibabadi reiterated Iran’s stated desire to maintain constructive relations with neighbouring countries.

His remarks came amid continuing regional tensions and concerns about the possibility of a wider confrontation. Tehran has repeatedly framed its security position around national defence and opposition to hostile actions against its territory and interests.

The latest statement signals that Iran is publicly emphasizing both diplomatic engagement with neighbouring states and its declared readiness to respond to aggression.

Whether the warning will lead to further diplomatic initiatives or changes in regional security conditions remains unclear.