We Do Not Seek War, But We Are Fully Prepared for Any Situation

Sayyed Abbas Araghchi, the Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, spoke to reporters on Thursday upon his arrival at Beirut airport, stating: "I am pleased to have the opportunity to visit Beirut once again. I will be meeting with Lebanese officials today and tomorrow, and my goal is to consult with friends and government officials in Lebanon regarding current regional developments."

He continued: "I would like to thank Mr. Khalil Hamdan, the representative of Mr. Nabih Berri, Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament, for the welcome and the remarks made upon my arrival."

Araghchi remarked: "Our region is facing serious challenges and threats, and the threats posed by the Zionist regime toward the region have perhaps never been this significant. In the past two years, seven countries, including Lebanon and Iran, have been attacked by this regime. Parts of Lebanese territory are still under occupation by their soldiers, and over the past year, the ceasefire has been repeatedly violated, with the regime failing to meet its commitments."

The Iranian Foreign Minister stated: "The primary objective of my visit is to have direct consultations with the President, Prime Minister, Speaker of Parliament, Foreign Minister, and other officials regarding these threats and challenges."

Araghchi noted: "Lebanon plays an important role in the region. Iran is consulting with all countries in the region, and my visit takes place at a crucial time for these consultations."

He added: "My other objective is to advance bilateral relations with Lebanon. The two countries have longstanding political, economic, and cultural ties, and we seek to expand these relations, particularly in the economic sector. Iran seeks to expand comprehensive relations with the entire Lebanese government, and in this framework, I will also meet with the Lebanese Minister of Economy."

He further stated: "Trade relations between Iran and Lebanon exceeded $110 million last year, indicating the growing ties between the two nations."

Araghchi emphasized: "Iran has always supported, and will continue to support, the territorial integrity, unity, and independence of Lebanon, and the stance of the Lebanese government toward Iran has always been the same. We seek to expand relations based on mutual respect and shared interests."

In response to a question regarding threats against Iran and negotiations with the United States, the Iranian Foreign Minister said: "The U.S. and Israel tried attacking Iran once; whenever they repeat this action, they will get a similar result. We are fully prepared for any situation. We do not seek war, but we are prepared for both war and negotiation."

He stressed: "Negotiation must be based on mutual interest and respect. Whenever the Americans accept that negotiation is different from dictation, a meaningful negotiation can take place."

Regarding threats against Iran and Lebanon, Araghchi concluded: "As I mentioned, we will have close consultations with Lebanese officials on this very important matter."