Sanaa: Iran's Parliament Speaker and top negotiator, Mohammed Bagher Qalibaf, emphasized the necessity for Tehran to remain perpetually prepared for war, while also highlighting the importance of diplomacy in advancing national interests. In a statement on his Telegram channel, Qalibaf stated, "We have never sought war and do not seek it now, but we must always be prepared for battle and stand ready to defend our national security and interests to the last breath."

According to Anadolu Agency, Qalibaf also underscored the role of diplomacy, noting, "At the same time, we must also use diplomacy and negotiations to advance and safeguard our national interests." Despite a Pakistan-mediated memorandum of understanding aimed at de-escalating tensions, the US and Iran have continued to exchange attacks following US-Israeli assaults on Tehran in February.

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that strikes against Iran would persist and intensify, warning that Washington plans to target the country's power plants and bridges in the coming week unless Tehran returns to negotiations. However, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baqaei, stated on Wednesday that Tehran currently has "no plans for negotiations at the moment," with the focus remaining on defense, as reported by the semi-official Tasnim news agency.

The recent US attacks on Iran's south resulted in at least 35 fatalities and over 300 injuries, according to Iran's Health Ministry.