Speaking to reporters during his return to Tehran from the Lake Lucerne summit in Switzerland, Qalibaf said the idea that diplomacy stands in opposition to the battlefield is “fundamentally incorrect,” arguing that military achievements only become lasting when they are politically and legally consolidated through diplomacy.
He described negotiations as a continuation of resistance by other means, stressing that the Swiss talks were conducted in direct continuity with developments on the ground and the outcomes achieved by Iran’s Armed Forces.
The Iranian speaker said the negotiations contributed to a reduction and eventual halt in hostilities, particularly highlighting developments related to Lebanon, where he said Israeli attacks decreased and displaced civilians began returning to their homes following the diplomatic process.
He noted that the understandings reached in Switzerland emphasized ending the war in Iran and its allies within the resistance front, while also addressing issues such as maritime tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and conditions in Lebanon.
Qalibaf stated that mechanisms were discussed to ensure implementation of the agreement, including coordination arrangements aimed at enabling the return of Lebanese civilians and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory.
Reiterating Iran’s lack of trust in the US, he said Tehran approached the negotiations with a defined roadmap and specific safeguards, including provisions requiring immediate implementation of certain commitments upon signing the agreement.
He added that Iran ensured key measures were activated simultaneously with the signing of the deal, including the lifting of blockades, which he said was achieved quickly without the need for further military escalation.
Qalibaf also said the agreement reflected Iran’s ability to combine “soft and hard power,” noting that even statements issued by US officials regarding regional waterways were later adjusted in line with the agreed framework.
He emphasized that the overall outcome demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated military and diplomatic action in advancing Iran’s strategic objectives.