Baghaei: No Direct Negotiations Held with the United States
WANA (Mar 30) – The Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed today that no direct negotiations have taken place with the U.S. to date. He clarified that since the last formal talks, communication has been limited to messages via intermediaries, including Pakistan, regarding U.S. requests for dialogue. Baghaei stated that Iran’s positions are clear and any new conclusions will be announced through official channels.
Marking the 31st day of resistance against “evil aggression” by the U.S. and the Israeli regime, Baghaei noted that while spring began under the shadow of a treacherous invasion, the Iranian people have defended their homes and identity with “claws and teeth”—referencing the use of the Kheibar-Shekan, Arash, and Khorramshahr missile systems against the aggressors.
Committed to Defending Iran’s Sovereignty
Baghaei highlighted the month’s most heinous crimes, noting that while Iranian leaders were targeted in Tehran, children and students were attacked at the Parliament. He honored the martyrs, specifically the students and teachers from Minab, reaffirming Iran’s commitment to its “rightful path” of protecting national sovereignty.
The Greatest Victims of the U.S. War
The spokesman argued that human rights and international law are the primary casualties of this war. He asserted that no similar instance exists in the UN’s 80-year history where such atrocities—meeting the criteria for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and potential genocide—have occurred within a single month.
An Iranian child, Amir Hossein, was injured in a strike and is being treated in Mofid Children’s Hospital, amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Tehran, Iran, March 28, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
Attacks on Hospitals Constitute War Crimes
Baghaei condemned strikes on universities and cultural sites in Isfahan and Tehran, which are part of the global heritage. He classified attacks on hospitals, Red Crescent facilities, and residential areas as war crimes.
He also noted that strikes on energy infrastructure caused blackouts in Tehran and Karaj, praising the Ministry of Energy staff for maintaining the grid despite these disruptions.
Insults to the Iranian People are Insults to the Entire Nation
The ministry is continuously documenting these crimes for legal and historical records. Baghaei dismissed U.S. claims of “assistance” as superficial, stating their actions reveal an intent to combat Iran’s very identity. He warned that using the distant past to justify modern aggression ignores Iran’s civilizational ability to confront and contain its enemies.
Israel and the U.S. Conduct Media and Cognitive Warfare
Baghaei thanked the media for preventing the “burial of truth.” He accused the U.S. and the Israeli regime of conducting a parallel cognitive war to invert reality and hide their aggression from the global public.
Attacks on Journalists and Media Part of the Israeli Policy of “Killing the Truth”
The spokesman linked the targeting of the Al-Arabiya office and the “martyrdom” of Al-Mayadeen and Al-Manar reporters in Lebanon to a deliberate policy of suppressing information. This, he noted, is part of a long list of media fatalities in Lebanon and occupied Palestine over the last three years.
Missile Strike Hits Minab During Visit by Foreign Journalists
WANA (Mar 29) – In a series of attacks on Saturday afternoon, areas in Minab County—including the Shajareh Tayyebeh primary school and Shahid Aabsalan clinic—were targeted in repeated strikes, coinciding with the presence of foreign journalists visiting the site of earlier attacks. According to Ahmad Nafisi, Deputy Governor of Hormozgan for Political, Security, and […]
Any Attack on a Journalist is a War Crime
Under international humanitarian law, any assault on a journalist is a war crime. Baghaei criticized the Israeli regime’s total disregard for these rules and urged the media to keep the world’s conscience from growing numb. He noted that recent protests in U.S. and European cities show the public increasingly views this as an illegal war against the whole world.
Iran Has Never Viewed Regional Countries as Enemies
Responding to reports of U.S. praise for Arab cooperation, Baghaei reminded neighbors that while foreign powers will eventually leave, the region’s nations remain together.
He stated that Iran has never considered regional countries as enemies, emphasizing that its defensive operations strictly target military sites used as origins for aggression against Iran—a stance he called logical, legal, and moral.
Simply Claiming “Not Part of the War” is Insufficient
Baghaei questioned how any sovereign government could remain silent while its territory or facilities are used by the U.S. and the Israeli regime for illegal aggression against Iran. He asserted that responding to such threats is an inherent right explicitly recognized under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.
Baghaei stated that merely declaring neutrality is not enough. While Iran welcomes such positions, it reminded neighboring countries that international law prohibits allowing one’s territory to be used for aggression against another state.
He noted that despite these claims, the world continues to see the U.S. utilize military bases in neighboring countries. Recent reports of damage to American aircraft at these regional bases prove that their soil is being used by the aggressors, whether intentionally or otherwise.
Iran’s Neighbors: Playing on the Enemy’s Turf?
WANA (Apr 24) – A piece of news is circulating on social media claiming that “Trump has asked Erdoğan to remain neutral in the U.S. attack on Iran and to allow the Pentagon to use Syrian airspace.” I am not trying to verify the authenticity of the news or determine whether it is true […]
Iran’s Self-Defense Should Not Be Interpreted as Hostility
The spokesman clarified that Iran’s military actions are strictly defensive and are not aimed at regional countries. He urged neighbors to remain committed to international law, ethical obligations, and the principles of brotherhood.
He called on them to ensure their facilities are not exploited by the U.S. or the Israeli regime to launch attacks, emphasizing that Iran expects more than “unilateral restraint” while it is under illegal assault.
Unilateral Restraint Cannot Be Expected from Iran
Baghaei warned that this war is a source of future sedition and division. He emphasized that a stable future depends on peace and good neighborly relations, which require responsible behavior today. He reiterated that Iran cannot be expected to hold back while the U.S. and Israel explicitly use regional resources to fuel their aggression.
Iranian Contributions to UAE Prosperity
Regarding the UAE, Baghaei highlighted the significant role Iranian capital, talent, and effort have played in that country’s economic growth.
He stated that Iranians in the UAE have worked tirelessly for the UAE’s prosperity and expressed hope that the UAE would treat Iranian nationals with future-oriented consideration. He reaffirmed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is duty-bound to protect the rights of Iranian citizens across the Persian Gulf.
Iranian Army Drone Strike Targets U.S. Positions and Radar Sites in the UAE
WANA (Mar 30) – Radar stations and locations hosting U.S. forces in the United Arab Emirates were struck by drones operated by the Iranian Army. According to Statement No. 48 issued by the Army’s Public Relations Office, the text reads as follows: “In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. […]
Constitutional Mechanisms for Decisions on War and Peace
When asked about a political framework for ending the war, Baghaei explained that the priority remains national defense.
He noted that according to the Constitution of the Islamic Republic, decisions regarding war and peace follow specific mechanisms. These decisions will be made by the country’s high authorities based on national interests whenever necessary.
Diplomacy Moving in Sync with Armed Forces
The spokesman noted that as the U.S. and the Israeli regime escalate their attacks—targeting even Iran’s scientific foundations and infrastructure—the diplomatic apparatus remains fully coordinated with the armed forces.
The current mission of the diplomatic sector is to explain the realities of the war to the global public and international organizations. Should additional missions be assigned, they will be carried out in full harmony with other sectors of the establishment.
Messages Received via Intermediaries Regarding U.S. Desire for Negotiation
Addressing rumors of a “15-point plan,” Baghaei confirmed that there have been no direct talks with the U.S. He noted that since the last round of negotiations, Iran has only received messages through intermediaries, such as Pakistan, indicating a U.S. desire for dialogue. However, he observed that global trust in American diplomatic claims remains very limited.
Islamabad Four-Nation Consensus: Diplomacy the Only Path to End the War
WANA (Mar 30) – A four-nation meeting of the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt concluded with a unified stance that diplomacy and dialogue remain the only viable path to ending the ongoing war and achieving lasting peace in the region. The meeting, held in Islamabad as the second round of […]
Iran Did Not Participate in the Pakistan Framework
Baghaei clarified that while Iran appreciates regional efforts for peace, it did not participate in the specific framework designed by Pakistan. He emphasized that any party addressing the conflict must realistically acknowledge who started it.
He noted that Iran was attacked twice in nine months while engaged in diplomatic processes, proving that the U.S. was the party that sabotaged the path of negotiation. He stated that Iran’s positions are firm and transparent, and any final conclusions will be announced officially when reached.
Rafael Grossi Has Taken a Deeply Flawed Approach
Baghaei criticized the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, for his stance regarding military strikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Baghaei stated that instead of holding the aggressors accountable, Grossi has used rhetoric in interviews that further complicates the situation.
He emphasized that even the suggestion of “bombing” nuclear programs is unacceptable from an official tasked with safeguarding non-proliferation.
Baghaei asserted that the Director General’s record over the past two years is indefensible, citing reports fueled by political bias and statements that undermine the IAEA’s technical neutrality.
Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), press conference in Vienna on June 09, 2025. Social media/ WANA News Agency
He argued that when peaceful nuclear facilities are attacked, the Agency and the Board of Governors must immediately condemn the acts and demand accountability—actions he noted have been tragically absent.
He reaffirmed that despite the IAEA’s failure to meet its responsibilities, Iran remains a committed member and will continue to pursue its legal demands.
Linking the Ukraine Conflict to West Asian Events is a Strategic Miscalculation
In response to reports that President Zelenskyy offered military aid to U.S. allies against Iran, Baghaei warned that connecting the Ukraine conflict to the current situation in the Middle East is a “disastrous miscalculation.”
He expressed confidence that regional countries are wise enough not to fall into such a trap, noting that the situation is already sufficiently complex due to U.S. and Israeli aggression. He praised regional states that have identified this “conspiracy” and chosen not to participate in the aggression.
Diplomatic Relations with Saudi Arabia Remain Active
Baghaei confirmed that diplomatic ties with Saudi Arabia are ongoing, with Iran’s ambassador active in Riyadh. He noted that Iran has clearly communicated its concerns and expectations.
Under international law and the principle of good neighborliness, countries are prohibited from allowing their territory or resources to be used by aggressors.
Ali Larijani in Saudi Arabia. Social media / WANA News Agency
He stressed that while Iran’s military acts with foresight and honor—avoiding direct conflict with neighbors—international law permits Iran to target the “origin and source” of any aggression launched from regional soil.
He specifically noted reports of U.S. refueling tankers operating from bases in Saudi Arabia and other regional states, calling on neighbors to prevent such exploitation of their territory.
Iran’s Greatest Strategic Ally is the Iranian People
Addressing why strategic partners like Russia and China did not veto UN Security Council resolutions or explicitly condemn attacks on Iran, Baghaei stated that Iran’s primary strength lies within.
He declared the Iranian people to be the nation’s “greatest strategic ally,” noting that for over 2,500 years, Iranians have overcome challenges by relying on internal capabilities.
He warned that the stances countries take today—whether they stand against international law violations or remain indifferent—will directly shape future diplomatic equations and the emerging global order.
A woman holds a poster with the image of Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, during an anti-U.S. and Israeli rally, amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Tehran, Iran, March 26, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
Iranian Ambassador to Continue Mission in Beirut
Following the “martyrdom” of several embassy staff members in Beirut due to Israeli attacks, Baghaei offered his condolences and condemned the acts as war crimes.
Regarding recent rumors about the Iranian Ambassador to Lebanon, he confirmed that after consultations with Lebanese authorities, the Ambassador will remain at his post in Beirut and continue his diplomatic mission as planned.
Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant Remains Operational
Regarding the security of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant following nearby strikes, Baghaei confirmed the facility remains active. He described the attacks near the plant as extremely dangerous evidence that the U.S. and the Israeli regime recognize no legal or moral “red lines.”
He reiterated that any threat to peaceful nuclear infrastructure is a serious violation of international law and falls under the direct responsibility of the UN and the IAEA to investigate and address.
Third Israeli Attack on the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant
WANA (Mar 28) – The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran announced that a projectile struck the premises of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant at 11:40 p.m.(local time) on Friday. In a post on the social media platform X, the organization added that no casualties or financial or technical damage have been reported. The […]
Allegations of Cluster Bomb Use are “Impudent” and Baseless
Baghaei strongly denied allegations that Iran has utilized cluster munitions in the current conflict, labeling the claims “impudent.” He asserted that while the U.S. and the Israeli regime routinely violate international humanitarian law by using cluster weapons, they simultaneously attempt to play the victim by accusing Iran of the same.
Baghaei clarified that what is deceptively being labeled as cluster munitions are, in fact, multi-warhead missiles, which differ fundamentally in function and classification. He characterized these accusations as a “flight forward” to distract from the aggressors’ own documented war crimes.
Baghaei pointed to recent strikes on a school in Minab and reports of new missile types used by U.S.-Israeli forces against a stadium and school in Lamerd-e Fars as clear evidence of their humanitarian violations. He listed daily attacks on power infrastructure, universities, and the use of white phosphorus—which causes massive environmental damage—as ongoing crimes.
Attacks Outside of Active Combat are War Crimes
The spokesman emphasized that the Israeli regime lacks the standing to accuse others of rights violations given the thousands of children “martyred” in their direct aggressions.
He reminded the international community that the entire war is illegal and aggressive, making every strike—including the “cowardly” attack on the training vessel Dena during a joint exercise—a war crime. He stressed that targeting commanders outside of active combat conditions is a grave breach of the laws of war.
Funeral Ceremony for the Students killed in Minab on March 03, 2026. Social media/ WANA News Agency
Public Presence Reflects Deep Patriotism
Regarding the continued presence of Iranian citizens in the streets during the conflict, Baghaei stated this reflects a deep love for the homeland and a sophisticated understanding of the situation.
He referenced a sentiment from the late Supreme Leader, noting that the “appointment” (mab’uth) of the people to lead and defend the country is currently being realized. He described the people as being at the forefront of national defense.
“Red Death” is the Highest Honor for a Soldier of the Homeland
Following the confirmed “martyrdom” of a high-ranking Iranian commander, Baghaei offered his congratulations and condolences, stating that “Red Death” in defense of Iran is the highest honor for a soldier. While calling the loss a great tragedy, he maintained that the flag would be carried forward by other commanders.
Legally, he reiterated that under the 1970 UN General Assembly definition of aggression, U.S. actions constitute a clear violation of Article 2, Paragraph 4 of the UN Charter, rendering every act within this framework a war crime.
Regional Countries Witness Iran’s Gallant Defense
Baghaei noted that regional neighbors, such as the Republic of Azerbaijan—which recently sent humanitarian aid—are closely watching the 31-day defense and can judge for themselves who is in the right.
He suggested that regional states are increasingly recognizing which side is committing an injustice against the global community and that “actions speak louder than words.”
A view of the Qatari Al-Arabi TV and business building damaged by a strike, amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Tehran, Iran, March 29, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
Turkey is Well Aware of Israeli Ambitions
The spokesman praised the “friendly” relationship with Turkey and its high-level condemnation of U.S.-Israeli military actions. He stated that Turkey is fully aware of the Israeli regime’s expansionist ambitions against Muslim nations and recognizes the regime as the primary obstacle to regional peace.
He expressed hope that mediation efforts by Turkey and other regional actors remain fair and realistic regarding the origins of the conflict.
Selling War has become an Industry in the United States
Baghaei addressed reports of selective briefing to the U.S. President, where American and Israeli operations are highlighted while painful losses and Iranian defensive strikes are obscured.
He remarked that “selling war” to the American public has become an industry fueled by political lobbyists. However, he noted that this is becoming difficult as the American public sees no justification for a war that serves a regime currently under international investigation for genocide. He described the conflict as becoming a “quagmire” for the U.S.
The Latest Figures on Damage Caused by the Airstrikes on Iran
WANA (Mar 27) – Official data released on Friday, March 27, 2026, reveals the scale of destruction inflicted upon Iran’s civilian and non-military sectors following sustained aerial operations by United States and Israeli air forces. The figures detail a systematic impact on residential, commercial, and humanitarian infrastructure across the country: Civilian and Residential […]
Strait of Hormuz: No Normal Passage for Enemy Vessels in Wartime
Responding to European concerns regarding rising fuel and food costs due to maritime tension, Baghaei stated that Iran is not responsible for this situation.
He noted that while Iran has been the “free guardian” of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz for decades, no coastal state under active bombardment can allow enemy vessels to pass normally.
He clarified that the Strait was not closed prior to this aggression and that non-hostile vessels are still transiting in coordination with Iranian authorities. He urged those concerned about global prices to address the primary aggressors who initiated the conflict.
Confusion Among European Policymakers
Baghaei dismissed European attempts to link the West Asian crisis to the Ukraine conflict as a sign of “confusion.” He argued that instead of addressing the internal problems of the EU or their issues with the U.S., European officials are seeking artificial excuses.
He stated that connecting the two conflicts is a desperate attempt to deflect from their inability to solve a dossier that has no relation to Iran or the region.
American Anti-War Voice Must Be Heard
Baghaei addressed the domestic unrest in the United States and the eroding trust in international nuclear treaties. He emphasized that the gap between American public opinion and the actions of its leadership has reached a breaking point.
The Voice of the American People Must Be Heard
When asked whether the massive anti-war protests in the U.S. could halt the conflict, Baghaei stated that a system claiming to be a “democracy” must fundamentally align its policies with the public will.
He lamented that in the U.S., critical decisions on war and peace are made by a small circle in coordination with a “genocidal regime,” rather than by the taxpayers.
He noted that American citizens are increasingly unwilling to see their soldiers’ lives and tax dollars sacrificed for an “oppressive aggression” against a sovereign, culture-loving nation like Iran.
The “Betrayal of Diplomacy” is Still Fresh
Baghaei dismissed U.S. claims that Iran had accepted a majority of their recent proposals as mere “wishful thinking.” Reaffirming that no direct talks have occurred, he noted that Washington’s messages—conveyed via intermediaries like Pakistan—are viewed with extreme skepticism.
“The betrayal imposed on diplomacy in less than a year is entirely tangible for us,” he remarked, suggesting that past American bad faith makes current overtures appear dishonest. He stressed that while aggression continues, Iran’s total focus remains on national defense.
Emergency personnel work at the site of a strike on a residential building, amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Tehran, Iran, March 23, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
Aggression Surpassing WWII Atrocities
Drawing a historical comparison, Baghaei asserted that even during Hitler’s campaigns in World War II, certain humanitarian minimums were occasionally observed that are being ignored today.
He cited the “treacherous” attack on the Iranian training vessel Dena, noting that unlike historical naval engagements where search-and-rescue operations followed a sinking, no such humanity was shown.
He categorized the ongoing strikes on universities, news agencies, and schools as absolute war crimes and a violation of the very framework of international law.
Iran Remains in the NPT
Addressing the growing debate within the Iranian Parliament and public regarding withdrawal from the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), Baghaei acknowledged it as a “major and difficult question.”
He noted that the Iranian public is increasingly asking: “What is the benefit of membership in a treaty where major powers prevent Iran from enjoying its legal rights?”
He clarified that while the Islamic Republic remains a member of the NPT and remains committed to its obligations—reiterating that Iran has never sought and does not seek nuclear weapons—the “grossly unfair” approach of the IAEA and the destructive behavior of the U.S. have forced this conversation.
Baghaei pointed out the hypocrisy of the international community remaining silent even as Iran’s peaceful nuclear facilities are physically attacked, an act that should trigger immediate global condemnation.
