As military tensions escalate between the United States and Iran, both sides have not completely ruled out the possibility of a diplomatic resolution. However, Iran has expressed strong distrust towards U.S. diplomatic proposals while confirming receipt of mediation offers from other countries.
On July 20, Esmail Baghaei, spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, stated during a press briefing, "Sticking to a binary choice of negotiation or war does not benefit the nation," adding that Iran will sometimes utilize defense, sometimes diplomacy, and at times both to protect its national interests.
In response to questions about Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi's visit to Qatar and the mediation proposals from Qatar, Baghaei confirmed that "mediating countries have made several proposals, and Iran has received them." He noted, "I will not comment on the specifics, but it is clear that the mediating countries are working to prevent escalation of tensions."
Baghaei emphasized, "Iran will spare no effort to halt U.S. attacks," asserting that the diplomatic authorities are aware of their roles and are continuing necessary efforts.
However, he expressed caution regarding U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's mention of the possibility for diplomatic resolution. He stated, "We have seen and tested this attitude from the U.S. multiple times," claiming that when the U.S. speaks of diplomacy, it means threats, intimidation, and coercion. He added that Iran's response to this will be to maintain its defensive posture as long as U.S. military pressure continues.
Previously, on July 19, Rubio had stated that the U.S. remains open to diplomatic solutions even as it expands military operations against Iran.
Nevertheless, military clashes between the two nations have intensified. Following the death of U.S. combat personnel in recent confrontations, the U.S. conducted airstrikes against Iran for nine consecutive days. President Donald Trump announced, "We struck Iran very hard again tonight."
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that it targeted Iranian military command centers, air defense and coastal surveillance facilities, naval forces, missile and drone-related sites, and communication networks. Explosions were reported not only in southern Iran but also in the northwestern city of Tabriz, indicating an expansion of the U.S. attack range.
Iran has also raised its response level, claiming attacks targeting U.S. military facilities in the region. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned that as long as U.S. military operations continue, the transportation of oil and gas through the Strait of Hormuz will not be safe.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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