Tehran: The chairman of the Chiefs of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces has declared that the Islamic Republic does not seek war but will respond decisively to any acts of aggression. Major General Mohammad Baqeri made these remarks while addressing commanders, officials, and personnel of the General Staff at the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Major General Baqeri labeled U.S. President Donald Trump as a "narcissist and bully," criticizing his confrontations with both allies and adversaries. He highlighted Trump's March 12 letter to Iran, noting that it received a fitting response from Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, Leader of the Islamic Revolution. Baqeri stressed that Iran will not instigate conflict but will defend itself firmly if provoked.

Baqeri reiterated Iran's commitment to peace and stability in the region, emphasizing that the country is not pursuing nuclear weapons and will not engage in direct negotiations with the United States. He highlighted the unreliability of the U.S. in past negotiations, underscoring a lack of trust in America.

He further explained that Iran's strategy is to safeguard its interests and pursue progress. Baqeri discussed the "True Promise" operations, which he claimed exposed the vulnerabilities of the Zionist regime, and emphasized that the Armed Forces' plans are based on past experiences and strategic analysis.

In his address, Baqeri also condemned international human rights organizations for their silence on Israeli actions in the Gaza Strip. He accused the Zionist regime of killing innocents and destroying homes in Gaza and Lebanon, with support from the U.S. and European countries.