Iran must be ready for war but also use negotiation, says Parliament Speaker

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has asserted that Iran must remain prepared for war while simultaneously leveraging diplomatic and negotiation tools. In a statement on social media, Ghalibaf addressed recent developments following U.S. attacks, framing the situation as an existential struggle with Washington, whose goal he claims is to dismantle and fragment the Islamic Republic.

"We must always be ready for war, and if necessary, we must fight with our lives to protect our security and national interests," Ghalibaf stated. He added, "At the same time, we must also benefit from the tools of diplomacy and negotiation to realize and consolidate our national interests."

Ghalibaf clarified that negotiation does not equate to surrender, emphasizing the need for a balance between military action and diplomacy. He noted that a deal is only meaningful if its terms are valid and in effect, and Iran has no reason to adhere to it if it derives no benefit. He also affirmed that the Iranian Armed Forces possess full freedom of action to counter enemy attacks.

Addressing the Strait of Hormuz, Ghalibaf highlighted its critical role in national security, stating, "Today, our national security is linked to the protection of 'Iranian order' in the Strait of Hormuz and ensuring the safest and most harmless passage of commercial ships through this waterway." He also vowed to avenge the former country leader Ali Khamenei and urged the public towards unity.

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Bugün ulusal güvenliğimiz, Hürmüz Boğazı'nda 'İran düzeninin' korunmasına ve bu su yolundan ticari gemilerin azami düzeyde güvenli ve zararsız şekilde geçişinin sağlanmasına bağlıdır. Böylece bu geçiş, İran'ın güvenliğine katkı sağlayacaktır.