Tehran: Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei on Monday described Tehran’s response to the latest US proposal to end the ongoing war as a “generous and responsible” offer. Baqaei emphasized that Iran did not demand concessions from the United States but instead called for an end to the conflict and a halt to maritime piracy against Iranian ships.

According to Anadolu Agency, Baqaei addressed questions about Qatar’s involvement in mediating between Iran and the US, clarifying that while Iran maintains contacts with various countries regarding regional tensions, Pakistan remains the official mediator. “Pakistan, as the official mediator between Iran and the US, continues its activities in this regard,” Baqaei stated, acknowledging Qatar’s and other nations’ contributions to the dialogue process.

Baqaei highlighted the importance of acting based on national interests within diplomatic processes, asserting, “The parties involved in a diplomatic process must act based on their national interests.” He further noted that Iran is prepared to engage in conflict if necessary but will also seize diplomatic opportunities when they align with its interests.

Iran submitted its response to the US proposal through Pakistani mediators on Sunday. The urgency of resolving the conflict has grown since the US and Israel conducted strikes against Iran on February 28, which led to retaliatory actions from Tehran against Israel and US allies in the Gulf. This escalation also resulted in the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

A ceasefire was initially implemented on April 8 through Pakistani mediation; however, talks in Islamabad did not yield a lasting agreement. The truce has since been extended indefinitely by US President Donald Trump, opening the door for further diplomatic efforts to achieve a permanent resolution to the conflict.