Tehran:Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of insecurity in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz through regional forums. He urged European countries to demonstrate their commitment to diplomacy by adhering to international law and abandoning coercive approaches and illegal sanctions against Iran.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, during an exclusive interview, Baqaei discussed a recent meeting in Istanbul involving three European nations and four regional states, where Persian Gulf security issues were examined. He highlighted the necessity of such meetings to focus on the underlying causes of regional instability and to openly address the roles of the United States and the Zionist regime in exacerbating conflicts.

Baqaei criticized the double standards of three European countries regarding West Asia security issues, citing their inaction against U.S. and Zionist military aggression toward Iran. He expressed hope for regional states to adopt independent and responsible approaches to assessing regional developments.

In response to assertions by European countries about the need for negotiations with Iran, Baqaei stated that diplomacy should not merely serve as a public relations tool. He noted that European nations, by aligning with U.S. coercive tactics, have undermined diplomatic efforts through actions like invoking the "snapback" mechanism and imposing sanctions on Iran.

Baqaei underscored Iran's commitment to diplomacy, despite facing military aggressions from the U.S. and the Zionist regime during negotiation processes. He criticized European parties for not condemning such aggressions, which they have supported covertly and openly.

He concluded by asserting that European countries must demonstrate their seriousness about negotiation and diplomacy by adopting independent positions aligned with international law and avoiding coercive measures. Baqaei reaffirmed Iran's dedication to defending its national sovereignty and interests, utilizing diplomacy as a vital tool while remaining prepared to use all available resources to protect its integrity.