Tehran: Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baqaei, announced that the country had not received a formal invitation to join a proposed regional security pact involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye. Baqaei noted that while regional countries have engaged Tehran in discussions about regional security, no official invitation has been extended.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Baqaei stated at a Monday press conference that Iran does not perceive the potential security arrangement among the three Islamic countries and two Muslim neighboring states as being targeted against Iran. He emphasized that discussions with these countries reflect a concern over US policies and a shared view that Washington primarily seeks to protect Israel's interests in the region. This has led to an understanding among regional countries about the need to create indigenous security mechanisms to counteract Israeli expansionism.

Baqaei addressed recent comments by the US Treasury secretary regarding impending economic sanctions on Iran, describing US rhetoric as desperate and misguided. He asserted that for over five decades, various forms of US pressure have aimed to force Iran into submission, but Iran remains determined to uphold its rights. Baqaei highlighted Iran's resilience and commitment to defending its sovereignty against military aggression and economic sanctions.

Furthermore, Baqaei commented on Iran-Iraq relations, underscoring the significance of Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf's visit to Iraq. He mentioned that the two countries have intertwined security interests and should enhance bilateral relations to transform their shared borders into 'borders of friendship.'

In response to reports of challenging conditions aboard a US aircraft carrier, Baqaei advised American sailors and Marines to return home, suggesting this as a solution to escape the hardships of their deployment.