Asked about a request by Pakistani Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar for the extension of the April 8 ceasefire between Iran and the United States, Esmaeil Baqaei on Wednesday appreciated Pakistan’s good offices and mediation efforts aimed at ending an imposed war and establishing regional peace.

He noted that the Islamic Republic of Iran was not the initiator of the imposed conflict, and that all Iranian actions were carried out in the framework of its inherent right to self-defense against military aggression by the United States and the Israeli regime.

Baqaei added that Iran, while closely monitoring developments on both the political and field levels, would adopt necessary measures to protect its national interests and security, stressing that the Iranian Armed Forces remain fully vigilant and prepared for a comprehensive and decisive defense against any threat or hostile action.

In response to another question regarding the pursuit of crimes and damages resulting from the US-Israeli attacks on Iran, Baqaei stated that the Islamic Republic would use all available opportunities and capacities to hold aggressors accountable and secure Iran’s rights, including ensuring justice for those responsible for war crimes and demanding compensation.

Commenting on the possibility of a new round of negotiations with the United States, the spokesman said diplomacy is a tool for safeguarding national interests and security, adding that Iran will engage in diplomatic efforts whenever it concludes that the necessary and rational conditions exist to advance national interests and consolidate the gains achieved by the Iranian nation in thwarting hostile objectives.