Iran Open to Talks but Ready to Defend Interests in Civilizational Standoff, Spokesperson Says

Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani stated on Tuesday that Tehran is not afraid of negotiations but will vigorously defend national interests through both diplomacy and resilience. Speaking at the 12th International Congress on Pulmonary Diseases, Intensive Care, and Tuberculosis, Mohajerani reiterated the administration's readiness for diplomatic engagement while underscoring that the country will not compromise on its fundamental rights under any circumstances.\n\nAddressing the international gathering, Mohajerani emphasized that logic dictates choosing negotiations to sustain Iran’s scientific and academic interactions with the global community. She characterized current geopolitical pressures not merely as political friction, but as an ongoing civilizational and scientific battle. "We are prepared for negotiations and we have no fear of it; whether through war or negotiations, we will defend our country," Mohajerani said, alleging that adversaries aim to exploit scientific dominance to maintain global hegemony rather than serve humanity.\n\nThe remarks come amid persistent diplomatic deadlock between Tehran and Western powers over Iran's nuclear program and broader regional tensions. The government of President Masoud Pezeshkian has consistently advocated for constructive international dialogue to ease sanctions while maintaining robust defensive deterrence and strategic self-reliance across critical scientific sectors.\n\nLooking forward, Mohajerani projected confidence in the nation's capacity to navigate external economic and geopolitical pressures. She reaffirmed that Iran, drawing on its deep historical and civilizational legacy, will maintain its global academic partnerships while forcefully deterring any encroachments on its national sovereignty.