Baghaei Dismisses Nuclear Speculation, Warns U.S. Over Regional Interference
WANA (May 04) – Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei announced today that media reports regarding uranium enrichment and nuclear materials are purely speculative, clarifying that the government is currently refusing to discuss any topic other than the cessation of hostilities.
During his weekly press conference, Baghaei confirmed that Tehran has received the U.S. response to Iran’s 14-point peace plan via Pakistani mediators. He noted that while the document is under review, the diplomatic process remains difficult due to an opposing party that frequently shifts its positions.
Maritime Security and the Strait of Hormuz
Addressing Donald Trump’s assertions regarding “Project Liberty” and the Strait of Hormuz, the spokesperson stated that those responsible for Iran’s security are fully prepared and know exactly how to defend the nation’s interests and sovereignty against illegal movements.
He referenced a statement issued today by the Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters, adding that the world does not believe Washington’s humanitarian claims nor its ability to exit a self-made quagmire by repeating past errors.
Baghaei emphasized that the Americans should have learned that they cannot address the Iranian people through the language of force, noting that the Strait of Hormuz was perfectly safe until late February when U.S. and Israeli aggression began.
Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters Warns U.S. Forces Against Entering Strait of Hormuz
WANA (May 04) – The commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters stated: “We warn that any foreign armed force—especially the aggressive U.S. military—will be attacked if it attempts to approach or enter the Strait of Hormuz.” Full text of the message from Major General Pilot Ali Abdollahi, Commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central […]
Regional Diplomacy
Regarding regional diplomacy and Foreign Minister Araghchi’s recent trips to Islamabad, Muscat, and Russia, Baghaei explained that as coastal states, Iran and Oman are working to draft specific protocols and mechanisms to ensure maritime safety. He noted that legal consultations involving relevant international institutions are expected to continue in the coming days.
U.S. Troop Withdrawals and European Relations
In response to questions regarding Donald Trump’s comments on reducing U.S. forces in certain European countries, Baghaei stated that America’s ill-advised aggression against Iran has had far-reaching consequences, including creating rifts among previously allied nations.
He suggested that these divisions show such countries are aware of the aggressive nature of U.S. actions. The spokesperson added that German officials have acknowledged that America’s entry into the war has imposed high costs on Europe and was conducted without a clear strategy.
Baghaei asserted that Iran holds all countries responsible that participated in this military aggression, whether through active involvement or appeasement.
He said that it is time for European nations to courageously acknowledge the results of blindly following U.S. policies and decide to adopt a more independent approach toward developments in West Asia and Iran-related issues.
People drive past an anti-U.S. billboard featuring the U.S. President Donald Trump and the Strait of Hormuz, in Tehran, Iran, May 2, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
Iran-Lebanon Visa Update
Regarding Lebanon, Baghaei characterized Hezbollah and the Lebanese resistance as the pride of the Arab and Islamic world, noting their role in defending Lebanon’s territorial integrity.
He also addressed a change in travel regulations, explaining that after the Lebanese government unilaterally cancelled a mutual visa waiver, the Iranian Foreign Ministry followed suit for Lebanese citizens. However, he noted that to prevent travel difficulties, Iran has established an immediate visa-issuance system at points of entry for Lebanese nationals.
Murder of an Iranian citizen in France
Regarding the murder of an Iranian citizen in France, Baghaei confirmed that the Iranian Embassy in Paris and the French Embassy in Tehran are actively following the case.
Rejection of Foreign Initiatives for the Strait of Hormuz
When asked whether the French-British proposal for the Strait of Hormuz was discussed during the recent Araghchi-France call, and what Iran’s stance is on such plans, Baghaei offered a stern warning. He advised these countries “not to further complicate the existing situation.”
The spokesperson clarified Iran’s position through the following points:
National Sovereignty: As a coastal state of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s measures are based on international and domestic law to ensure national security against any aggression.
The Ability to Close Hormuz Changes Everything
WANA (May 02) – Before the war imposed on Iran by the United states and Israel, which began on February 28, the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz largely remained a latent capability. Many analysts and observers, both in Iran and globally, acknowledged Iran’s geopolitical position, yet did not expect this capacity to […]
The Source of Instability: Baghaei stated that the current threat to global trade is not in the Persian Gulf, but stems from U.S. “maritime piracy” and the illegal seizure of Iranian vessels in international waters.
Advice to Europe: He noted that the “best help” European nations can provide is to prevent the escalation of illegal U.S. actions in the region rather than proposing new maritime schemes.
Baghaei also condemned U.S. actions in the Western Hemisphere, specifically the blockade of Cuba, calling it a “gross violation of humanitarian rights.”
Tensions with the UAE and Regional Shifts
The spokesperson commented on the United Arab Emirates’ reported decision to withdraw from OPEC, describing the move as “non-constructive” if intended as a retaliatory gesture. He criticized the UAE’s “inappropriate behavior” over the past 50 days, specifically its cooperation with parties hostile to Iran.
Addressing reports of the UAE purchasing Israeli weaponry, Baghaei warned that any regional collusion with the “Zionist regime” would only escalate insecurity.
UAE Orders Closure of Iranian Institutions
WANA (Mar 19) – The United Arab Emirates has reportedly ordered the closure of three Iranian institutions in the country, including Iranian schools, the Iranian Hospital in Dubai, and the Iranian Club, amid rising regional tensions. According to reports, UAE authorities instructed the shutdown of Iranian-run schools and ordered the suspension of operations at […]
He further urged the UAE to reconsider its treatment of Iranian citizens, noting that turning residents into “levers of political pressure” is both unethical and a violation of human rights.
He added, “The obligations of a host government toward the citizens of other countries, including Iranians, are clear. They themselves acknowledge that Iranians have played a significant role in the economic prosperity of Dubai. If they subscribe to such a statement, they must reconsider their behavior toward Iranian nationals. This is a demand we have of the UAE government.”
Defense Policy and Regional Conflict
Baghaei clarified that Iran does not initiate “attacks” against regional neighbors, describing actions in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah as “defensive measures” against threats originating from those territories.
He stated that any ceasefire agreement between Iran and the U.S. must include America’s “proxies” (referring to Israel), while reiterating that Iran’s policy of non-recognition of the Israeli regime remains unchanged.
In response to a journalist’s question regarding why Iran does not back down against a superpower, Baghaei replied, “We are also a superpower.”
He denounced Bahrain’s decision to revoke the citizenship of several nationals over alleged links to Iran, labeling the practice “inhumane and obsolete.”
CENTCOM Announces Transfer of Detained Iranian Vessel Crew to Pakistan
WANA (May 04) – The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has announced the transfer of the crew of a detained Iranian vessel to Pakistan, a move described as a preliminary step for their return to Iran and the resolution of the vessel’s ownership status. CENTCOM stated that the ship “Touska” and its crew have […]
Regarding the “Touska” Vessel, he characterized the U.S. seizure of the Iranian ship Touska as “maritime piracy” and confirmed that the foreign ministry is actively pursuing the release of its crew.
Baghaei Asserts Maritime Rights in Strait of Hormuz
Regarding the legal regime of the Strait of Hormuz, Baghaei addressed domestic discussions on implementing new maritime regulations.
He asserted that under both Iranian domestic law and customary international law, Iran is authorized to take necessary measures to ensure national security when facing external threats or military aggression.
While noting that Iran is not a party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), he emphasized that legal frameworks exist to establish mechanisms for safe passage. He stated that ensuring safety in the Strait remains a top priority for Tehran.
Iran Reviews U.S. Response
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that indirect talks with the United States are ongoing through Pakistani mediation. He stated that Iran has received a response from Washington and is currently reviewing it, noting that Tehran’s finalized positions will be conveyed back through the same channel once a conclusion is reached.
Baghaei: No Nuclear Issues Included in Iran’s Proposal to End War
WANA (May 03) – The spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Iran’s 14-point plan does not include matters related to the country’s nuclear issues, stating: “The Americans have delivered their response to this plan to the Pakistani side, and we are currently reviewing it.” Speaking in a televised interview on […]
Clarification on the 14-Point Plan
Regarding Iran’s 14-point plan and the rumors of it being a “three-stage” proposal, the spokesperson clarified that such phasing was merely a media invention by certain outlets and did not exist within Iran’s official suggestions. However, he emphasized that Tehran continues to welcome the design of a collective security framework for the region.
He stated that it is time for regional nations to engage in dialogue to establish an “endogenous” security mechanism. He further noted that Iran has always championed trust-building measures among neighboring countries with the aim of creating a collective security architecture led by regional actors, asserting that they utilize every opportunity to promote this vision.
On Nuclear Negotiations and the Current Priority
Concerning nuclear talks with the United States, the senior diplomat stated that Tehran is currently focused on terminating the war and cannot overlook past experiences.
Baghaei explained that on two previous occasions, Iran was attacked while in the midst of nuclear negotiations, noting that such discussions possess unique sensitivities and nuances. He added that the opposing party must reach a conclusion to adopt a reasonable and non-excessive approach regarding its issues with Iran.
On European Responsibility
The Iranian diplomat expressed hope that European countries would adopt a more realistic and responsible stance concerning international peace, security, and regional developments.
Strategic Coordination with Russia and China
In response to reports regarding a request for Russia and China to play a role in a potential agreement between Iran and the United States, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei highlighted the continuous contact between Tehran and its strategic partners.
He noted that as permanent members of the UN Security Council with whom Iran shares comprehensive strategic partnership agreements, Russia and China play a vital role in regional and international developments.
Baghaei emphasized that it is natural for Iran to strengthen these ties and maintain regular consultations on regional issues. However, he asserted that Iran remains self-reliant in securing its rights, stating that a nation’s primary guarantee is its own power.
Position on Palestine
Regarding the absence of Gaza and Palestine in recent peace proposals, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson asserted that Palestinians must make their own decisions. He emphasized that Iran does not see itself as having the authority to make decisions for any part of the region.
The spokesperson explained that the core of the issue lies in the Palestinian people’s struggle against occupation, apartheid, and genocide to achieve their right to self-determination. He questioned how anyone could demand a ceasefire from a nation striving for its fundamental rights, maintaining that such matters are strictly for the Palestinian people to decide.
Baghaei concluded by describing the Palestinian cause as both a humanitarian and an Islamic struggle. He noted that supporting the self-determination of Palestinians is a global human demand that is fully recognized in international legal frameworks and United Nations documents.
Humanitarian Impact
The spokesperson also provided a report on the humanitarian impact of the 40-day conflict, stating that 184 students and 36 teachers have been killed in attacks by the U.S. and the Israeli regime. He reported that 650 schools and educational centers across 17 provinces have been damaged, excluding universities and scientific centers.
Baghaei asserted that those who committed these heinous crimes against Iranians must be prosecuted and punished in both competent American courts and at the international level.
