WANA (Jul 15) – In a statement addressed to the Iranian people, the Speaker of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, emphasized that Iran’s national security is defined by preserving “Iranian arrangements” in the Strait of Hormuz and ensuring the safe passage of commercial vessels through this strategic waterway. He stated that Iran had also insisted on consolidating these arrangements during negotiations and would stand firmly against any attempt to undermine them.

 

In a statement issued on Wednesday night, July 15, 2026, regarding recent developments and the current situation, Ghalibaf addressed questions raised about war, negotiations, and the path ahead, stressing that such issues must be assessed based on national interests and security considerations, away from partisan perspectives.

 

He said that the Islamic Republic of Iran is engaged in a complex confrontation with the United States, adding that the adversary’s strategy toward Iran has not changed and that its objective goes beyond weakening the Islamic Republic and includes creating divisions within the country.

 

The Speaker of Parliament stressed the necessity of relying on domestic capabilities, stating that the United States seeks to advance its interests and exert pressure on Iran under various circumstances. Therefore, Iran’s approach—whether in conflict or negotiations—must be based on realism, national interests, and a long-term perspective.

 

Referring to the resistance of the Iranian people and armed forces against external pressure, Ghalibaf said that this resistance had frustrated the enemy’s plans during the 40-day war and forced it to accept a ceasefire and enter negotiations, although this did not mean a change in the enemy’s overall strategy.

 

He stressed that Iran has never sought war, but must always remain prepared to defend itself while also using diplomacy and negotiations to achieve and secure its national rights and interests.

 

The Strait of Hormuz as a Pillar of Iran’s National Security

Ghalibaf highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, stating that, unlike the 12-day war, Iran properly implemented its arrangements in the waterway during the 40-day war because insecurity in this region is directly linked to Iran’s national security.

 

He emphasized that Iran’s national security depends on maintaining “Iranian arrangements” in the Strait of Hormuz and ensuring the maximum safe and unhindered passage of commercial ships through this vital maritime route, turning it into a factor that contributes to Iran’s security.

 

Ghalibaf explained that after the beginning of the third imposed war in March, Iran’s armed forces established control over the strait, and during negotiations this issue was incorporated into Article 5 of the agreement to serve as leverage for implementing other provisions and securing Iran’s gains.

 

He added that as the implementation phase of the agreement has begun, the United States, which he said lacks sufficient legal and diplomatic standing, is attempting through pressure and political measures to weaken the Iranian arrangements in the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iran will continue to stand firm based on the achievements it has secured.

 

Ghalibaf stated that the enemy is applying pressure to compensate for its defeats, but Iran, relying on its own strength, will not allow the enemy to impose its will.

 

Diplomacy Alongside Defensive Power, Not Instead of It

The Speaker of Parliament stressed the need for coordination between military capabilities and diplomacy, saying that Iran should not fear either war or negotiations, as both can serve as tools for protecting national interests.

 

He added that negotiations under current circumstances do not mean compromise; rather, alongside defensive power, they are part of a strategy of resistance and safeguarding national interests. He described separating these two approaches and choosing only one as the sole solution as a strategic mistake.

 

Ghalibaf stated that Iran is facing the world’s greatest material power and that such circumstances require decisions and actions that are equally significant, complex, and resilient.

 

Decision on War and Negotiations Rests with the Commander-in-Chief

The Speaker of Parliament further emphasized that achieving victory and securing the rights of the Iranian people requires following the guidance of the Supreme Leader and pursuing a roadmap based on resistance, rationality, and the intelligent use of defensive and diplomatic capabilities.

 

He said that the boundary between war and negotiations is determined by national security and interests, and that the decision on using either instrument, depending on circumstances, rests with the Supreme Leader and Commander-in-Chief.

 

At the conclusion of his statement, Ghalibaf called on the Iranian people, regardless of their political views or preferences, to preserve national unity and demonstrate through their presence and solidarity that Iran will not retreat in the face of threats.