WANA (Jun 15) – The cessation of hostilities in Lebanon is an inseparable and integral part of the final agreement to end the war, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei announced Monday afternoon.

 

Speaking at his weekly press briefing, Baghaei emphasized that Tehran remains deeply committed to this objective, noting that the word “Lebanon” explicitly appears three times in the finalized text of the accord.

 

He stated that Iran had previously demonstrated its seriousness regarding a Lebanese ceasefire during the developments of April 8 and affirmed that the Islamic Republic would continuously monitor future developments closely, utilizing all available measures to ensure the opposing parties fully implement their commitments.

 

Islamabad Accord Follows ‘Mythical’ Resistance Against Aggression

The spokesperson described the finalization of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to end the war across all fronts, including Lebanon, as a highly significant development. He attributed the breakthrough to the mythical resilience and resistance of the Iranian people against two malicious actors.

 

 

Baghaei expressed gratitude to the Iranian public for supporting the nation’s military and diplomatic defenders throughout the 110-day conflict. He paid tribute to Iran’s martyred leader and all figures killed during the aggression, vowing that the country would spare no effort or sacrifice in continuing their path.

 

Turning to past events, the spokesperson marked the anniversary of the June 2025 U.S. and Israeli aggression against Iran. He stated that the nation would not forget the heinous crimes committed over a 12-day period, which included strikes on Iran’s peaceful nuclear facilities.

 

Baghaei criticized the international community, specifically the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its Board of Governors, stating they had failed to fulfill their duties regarding the illegal attacks, during which Iran lost several senior commanders and citizens.

 

Israeli Strikes in Lebanon Yielded ‘Maximum Benefits’ for Resistance

Addressing the recent Israeli attacks on Beirut’s Dahiyeh district amid peaking diplomatic efforts, Baghaei condemned the targeted killing of a senior Hezbollah commander and civilians in a residential area.

 

However, the spokesperson asserted that every decision made by Tehran is based on a meticulous and comprehensive assessment of national interests.

 

 

He stated that it would become clearer in the future how yesterday’s terrorist action by the Israeli regime ultimately served the maximum interests of both Iran and Lebanon.

 

According to Baghaei, Iran and its allies did not allow this malice to disrupt their focus on supreme interests, adding that the crime would only strengthen the cohesion and power of the resistance front.

 

Regional Tour Planned Ahead of Final Geneva Signing

When asked about the details of the preliminary talks in Doha and the upcoming signing mechanism in Switzerland, the spokesperson noted that specific details would be released soon.

 

He confirmed that a regional tour to neighboring countries is on the agenda before the Geneva summit, with official itineraries to be announced once finalized. He added that a definitive decision regarding the signing ceremony’s final timeline would be determined within the next 48 days and subsequently publicized.

 

Responding to a question regarding whether the accord implies friendship with the United States, Baghaei dismissed the notion by highlighting the deep-rooted mistrust Iranians hold toward Washington, dating back to 1953.

 

 

He noted that the opposing side had initially claimed it would destroy Iranian civilization and infrastructure, yet a final agreement was reached last night after numerous ups and downs. Baghaei described the agreement merely as a step toward de-escalating tensions and ending a war that damaged the region, hurt the Iranian nation, and resulted in a heavy defeat for the initiators of the aggression.

 

State Consensus Backs the Peace Agreement

Baghaei dismissed concerns regarding internal divisions over the content of the memorandum, reassuring that the decision-making process was entirely transparent and comprehensive. He stated that the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) played a prominent role alongside all state governing bodies, which executed their legal duties perfectly, as reflected in the council’s official statement.

 

He praised the national cohesion and consensus across all pillars of the Islamic Republic, expressing gratitude to Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf for managing the sensitive negotiations, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for his diplomatic efforts, and the President for leading a unified state response.

 

Legal Action and Retaliation

The spokesperson reaffirmed that Iran will continuously pursue legal avenues and accountability for the actions of the U.S. and Israel, including seeking justice for its “martyred leader”.

 

He emphasized that diplomacy and entering an agreement to end the war do not mean Iran will ever forget or forgive the crimes committed against its people, pledging to use every international body to document and prosecute these acts.

A woman holds an image of the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during a rally in Tehran, Iran, June 1, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Accord Mandates Full Sanctions Relief and U.S.-Funded Reconstruction

Addressing the economic dividends of the memorandum of understanding, Baghaei stated that the release of frozen Iranian funds and the reconstruction of damages are two pivotal economic pillars of the agreement, with the American side committing to taking concrete actions on both fronts.

 

He emphasized that access to frozen assets is treated strictly as an inherent right of Iran, rather than a financial concession or grant from the United States, adding that necessary arrangements have been firmly secured in this regard.

 

The spokesperson underscored that demanding reconstruction damages remains an exceptionally vital issue and a legitimate demand of the Iranian public, given that the war was illegal and accompanied by numerous war crimes.

 

He vowed that Tehran would resolutely pursue these claims, noting that the issue has been explicitly codified within the memorandum. Furthermore, Baghaei explained that under the accord, the United States is required to dismantle all sanctions, including primary and secondary measures, as well as United Nations Security Council sanctions and relevant resolutions passed by the IAEA Board of Governors.

 

 

Immediate Oil Waivers Set for Friday

The spokesperson revealed that waivers allowing the unrestricted sale of Iranian crude oil, petroleum products, and petrochemicals must take effect immediately upon the formal signing of the memorandum this Friday. He stated that following the signing, Iran will be able to conduct its oil and petrochemical trade without any external barriers or disruptions.

 

When asked about recent critical remarks made by the Lebanese Foreign Minister against Iran, Baghaei dismissed the comments, stating that Tehran has far more important priorities and would not engage with matters that lack the value of a response.

 

He reiterated that Lebanon’s sovereignty, national unity, security, and the dignity of its people hold such immense weight for Iran that the Islamic Republic has practically demonstrated the depths it will go to defend them. He reminded reporters that the finalized memorandum references Lebanon by name three times, explicitly underscoring the absolute necessity of preserving Lebanese sovereignty.

 

Iran and Oman to Manage Strait of Hormuz Navigation and Service Fees

Turning to the strategic transit route, Baghaei described the Strait of Hormuz as highly vital to Iran, explaining that all measures adopted by Tehran conform strictly to international law. He stated that as a coastal state, Iran—in partnership with Oman—will implement the necessary arrangements to guarantee the safe transit of vessels through the waterway.

 

According to the spokesperson, the text of the memorandum tasks Iran with establishing these safety measures in coordination with Oman and in consultation with other stakeholders to ensure reliable navigation. He explained that for a designated timeframe, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be managed in tandem with reciprocal measures taken by the opposing party.

 

 

Baghaei asserted that this responsibility falls squarely on the Iranian government as a coastal authority, leaving no doubt that Iran’s sovereignty and regional standing remain fully preserved.

 

While clarifying that Iran does not seek to impose arbitrary transit tolls, he announced that a structured fee system would be designed and levied in exchange for tangible navigation services, environmental protection, and maritime vessel insurance.

 

U.S. Held Solely Responsible for Any Israeli Violations

Addressing the close coordination between Israel and the United States, the spokesperson remarked that it is universally clear that the Israeli regime under no circumstances desires peace or stability in the region, as its operational record shows it opposes any development that might bring tranquility.

 

However, Baghaei emphasized that what matters most to Tehran is the explicit commitment of the United States to the terms agreed upon in the memorandum.

 

He stated that the populations of the region will never believe the Israeli regime could act without prior or subsequent coordination with Washington. Consequently, he declared that the United States bears full responsibility for executing the accord, and any breach of contract by America’s regional allies will be blamed entirely on the U.S. side.

 

 

Nuclear Issues Deferred to 60-Day Post-Accord Talks

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated that the final text of the memorandum of understanding contains no specific details regarding the nuclear issue. Instead, Iran and the United States have agreed to general terms to hold dedicated talks regarding the nuclear program and the broader lifting of sanctions within a 60-day window following the formal signing of the accord.

 

Addressing Donald Trump’s remarks on enriched uranium, Baghaei warned that the U.S. had previously tested this path and seen the results, suggesting that a rational actor would not repeat past mistakes.

 

He clarified that while the upcoming negotiations will cover Iran’s enrichment activities—under its established rights and obligations as an NPT member—as well as the status of its highly enriched uranium stockpiles, no agreements were made on these two specific topics in the current text. Tehran’s positions remain unchanged, and the direction of these matters will be determined during the 60-day negotiation period.

 

Responding to a query from Canada’s CBC News regarding U.S. guarantees over Israeli compliance and domestic public skepticism within Iran, Baghaei emphasized that Tehran harbors absolutely no trust toward either the Israeli regime or the United States, pointing to a proven track record of bad faith.

 

 

However, he asserted that Iran possesses its own levers of influence, stating that the United States is obligated to fulfill its commitments and must ensure that the Israeli regime strictly abides by the terms of halting the war in Lebanon.

 

The spokesperson underscored that all commitments under the accord are strictly reciprocal, making it impossible for the opposing side to expect Iran to fulfill its obligations while Washington or its allies evade theirs.

 

Baghaei added that while the UN resolution will provide legal durability based on lessons learned from past agreements, Iran’s most effective and powerful guarantee remains its own defensive leverage, which has been optimally demonstrated throughout the recent conflict.

 

Domestic Consensus and Transparent Decision-Making Protect the Accord

Addressing concerns over internal public opposition and criticism within Iran, Baghaei defended the country’s vibrant civil society, describing its inquisitive media and alert public opinion as valuable achievements of the Islamic Republic. He maintained that as the true custodians of the revolution and the nation, the Iranian people remain watchful of their officials’ actions.

 

Nevertheless, the spokesperson expressed absolute confidence in the cohesion of the historic Iranian nation, stating that citizens trust their decision-makers and recognize that the long, delicate process leading to the accord was guided strictly by the country’s supreme national interests.

 

 

He stated that once the public is convinced that the leadership has secured the best possible outcomes for national security, they will resolutely support the path forward.

 

In contrast, Baghaei suggested that Washington should be the one worried about domestic compliance, claiming that the American decision-making apparatus is chronically vulnerable to warmongers, the Israeli lobby, and pressure-group think tanks.

 

Switzerland Selected for Signing After Extensive Regional Mediation

Clarifying the shift of the formal signing venue from Pakistan to Europe, the spokesperson extended Iran’s deep gratitude to Pakistan and Qatar for their mediation efforts, as well as Oman for its principled stance throughout the entire diplomatic and military crisis.

 

He specifically praised Muscat’s responsible and sincere approach toward regional security and its long-standing role as a mediator between Tehran and Washington.

 

Baghaei explained that selecting the final venue for the signing ceremony required a collective consensus among all parties involved, including the mediators. Ultimately, the consensus dictated that the official signing will take place this Friday in Switzerland.

A man walks near an anti-U.S. mural on a building in Tehran, Iran, June 9, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Mexican Authorities Praised for Ensuring Iranian World Cup Team Safety

On a separate note, when asked about recent security breaches affecting other national sports teams in the region—including a shooting incident targeting the Argentine national football team and a robbery involving the British team—and the measures taken to safeguard Iranian athletes, Baghaei offered a reassuring update.

 

The spokesperson noted that, fortunately, the Iranian national football team’s training camp is located in Mexico rather than the United States. He stated that the Iranian Embassy in Mexico is fully active, with diplomats stationed in Tijuana to assist the delegation.

 

Baghaei thanked Mexican authorities for their professional and responsible hospitality, noting that excellent security measures have been in place since the team’s arrival to ensure a peaceful and successful stay during the tournament.

 

Funeral Arrangements for the Slain Supreme Leader

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated that a special committee, led by the consular department, has been established to manage the arrival and visa issuance for a large number of foreign dignitaries and international media organizations attending the historic funeral.

 

 

Clarification on Araghchi’s Comments

Addressing the Foreign Minister’s statement that “resistance, not negotiation, led to war,” Baghaei clarified that the U.S. destroyed the diplomatic process because Iranian diplomats refused to bow to excessive American demands.

 

UN Condemnation of Dahiyeh Attack

Baghaei welcomed the UN Secretary-General’s rare, explicit condemnation of the Israeli strike on Beirut’s Dahiyeh, calling it a vital stance against a blatant violation of Lebanese sovereignty.

 

Response to JD Vance’s Economic Promises

Dismissing the U.S. Vice President’s claims of future economic benefits for Iran, Baghaei sarcastically remarked that the Iranian people have already experienced American “benefits” through three months of devastating military strikes, economic sanctions, and a naval blockade.

 

Baghaei Denies Prisoner Swap Talks

When asked whether a prisoner exchange between Tehran and Washington was on the horizon, the spokesperson clarified that the bilateral negotiations mediated by Pakistan over the past few months were strictly concentrated on ending the war imposed on Iran, confirming that no discussions on any other external topics had taken place.

 

Addressing a recent New York Times report detailing a “reconstructed Middle East” favoring American interests, Baghaei countered that the events of the past three months have instead yielded a far more powerful Iran, benefiting both its own citizens and the wider West Asian region.

 

 

He stated that military aggression, intimidation, and pressure failed to weaken the nation, serving only to unlock and catalyze the absolute potential of Iranian capabilities.

 

Final Text of 14-Point Accord to Be Made Public Friday

Addressing inquiries regarding how closely the 14-point accord aligns with the 10-point framework published by the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) on April 8, Baghaei explained that the council’s framework served as the fundamental baseline and operational guideline for the Iranian negotiating team.

 

He stated that the public will see these core principles thoroughly integrated across the various sections of the finalized memorandum, which—along with an explanatory fact sheet—is scheduled for official public release on the day of the signing this Friday.

 

Armed Forces on High Alert Amid Deep Distrust of U.S. Compliance

When asked whether a failure to achieve a final agreement would plunge the region back into war, the spokesperson emphasized that Tehran remains highly vigilant due to Washington’s extensive history of breaking treaties.

 

Baghaei stated that while the diplomatic apparatus will continue negotiations to secure Iranian interests, the country must learn from past experiences.

 

 

He underscored that Iran’s military forces remain on permanent high alert for any potential contingency, adding that the Foreign Ministry has prepared comprehensive contingency plans for all possible scenarios and future outcomes.

 

IAEA Urged to Abandon Politicized Approach After Nuclear Site Strikes

Turning to international nuclear oversight, the spokesperson sharply criticized the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for what he described as a long-standing, deeply politicized approach.

 

He condemned the regular issuance of non-technical commentary that exceeds the personal jurisdiction of the IAEA Director General, asserting that such behavior is entirely unhelpful.

 

Baghaei reminded reporters that Iran remains a committed member of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), but pointed out that the recent military strikes against Iran’s peaceful nuclear facilities constituted an unprecedented and unique violation.

 

He maintained that the agency must fundamentally reform its conduct and fulfill its legal obligations regarding these attacks if it wishes to play a constructive role in matters relating to Iran’s nuclear program.

 

 

Ongoing Consultations Maintained over Afghan Developments

On regional affairs, the spokesperson addressed recent public protests in Herat, Afghanistan, noting that Tehran continuously monitors all internal developments within its neighboring country.

 

He stated that Iranian officials maintain constant contact with Afghan government authorities, engaging in regular consultations to relay Iran’s viewpoints on all matters affecting bilateral relations.