Qalibaf: Iran’s only battlefield is defending the nation’s rights

Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has reiterated that the only battlefield for Iran is centered on defending the rights of the Iranian people, emphasizing a dual strategy that unites military and diplomatic efforts as essential tools of resistance.

Qalibaf on Thursday invoked divine mandates that guide the country’s leadership, referencing the vision of the late Imam Khomeini and the martyrdom of Ayatollah Khomeini’s successor, who urged perseverance in the face of adversity.

“The victory we are witnessing today is not only the result of our resistance but a reflection of divine providence and the prayer of our martyrs,” Qalibaf said.

He explained that the Iranian people are now seeing part of this long-awaited victory, underscored by the "historic retreat" of US President Donald Trump and Washington’s abandonment of its previous proposals.

This shift, according to Qalibaf, marked a crucial acceptance of Iran’s 10-point framework, which enshrines the country’s rights.

“Today, we are seeing part of this victory,” Qalibaf asserted, adding that the success of Iran’s framework and the shift in US policy represents a critical turning point.

"This is an irrefutable victory for the Islamic Republic in this civilizational war," he said, emphasizing that the shift will elevate Iran’s position not only in the region but also in the emerging global order.

Nevertheless, Qalibaf was quick to caution that this is merely the first step.

“This victory is just the beginning,” he declared, adding that Iran’s battle is still far from over. "We do not believe in separating military from diplomacy," he explained.

“We only have one battlefield: the defense of Iran’s rights. Whether that battle is fought with arms or through diplomacy, we will remain resolute,” he said, stressing the necessity of both tools working in harmony to achieve the country’s strategic goals.

Qalibaf emphasized that Iran’s experience of negotiating with adversaries, particularly the United States, shows that trust in the enemy is misplaced.

“We have learned from the past that we must have absolute distrust in our adversaries,” he said, pointing to Washington’s repeated violations of international agreements.

“They do not want to respect the rights of the Iranian people. But we can compel them, through both military and diplomatic means, to uphold their commitments.”

Reflecting on the tense diplomatic history of the last several years, Qalibaf recalled Iran’s steadfast refusal to engage in negotiations under the Trump administration’s recent ultimatums.

"When President Trump issued his ultimatums, we refused to negotiate. Instead, he was forced to falsely claim that he would negotiate with Iran to manage his country’s economic crisis. He even extended his ultimatum three times,” Qalibaf stated.

Qalibaf insisted that any future talks with the US would only be contingent on America adhering to its obligations.

“If the United States continues to violate its promises, we will reignite the resistance,” he warned, stressing that Iran’s people and armed forces stand ready to defend their rights at all costs.

“The message is clear: if the US continues its violations, we will not hesitate to continue our struggle,” he said.

Challenges ahead

Despite the triumphs achieved so far, Qalibaf acknowledged the immense challenges that lie ahead.

"The road before us is still fraught with difficulties," he said, cautioning that any missteps could jeopardize the gains made.

"We must be vigilant. The Iranian people have shown over the last 40 days that they have reached a level of power and maturity that will carry them through any setbacks."

Referring to the martyrdom of those who have fallen in the defense of Iran, Qalibaf stressed that the blood of the martyrs would not be in vain.

"The sacrifices of our martyrs, especially over the past 40 days, are what have brought us this far. They will continue to inspire us and lead us toward the ultimate victory," Qalibaf said.

Asserting that Iran's resilience is rooted in its foundational principles, Qalibaf pointed to the unwavering faith of the Iranian people and their commitment to the cause of the revolution.

“With divine guidance, we will persevere,” he asserted, “no matter the obstacles. The strength of our faith and the unity of our people will see us through.”

Imam Khamenei: Architect of Iran’s unconventional warfare

In a poignant tribute to martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, Qalibaf lauded the visionary leadership that shaped Iran’s military strategy.

"Imam Khamenei was the architect of Iran’s asymmetric warfare strategy," Qalibaf said, adding that Iran's success in confronting the world’s most advanced military technologies could be directly attributed to Ayatollah Khamenei’s foresight and leadership.

He described Ayatollah Khamenei as a commander who fully understood the importance of leveraging Iran’s internal capabilities, as he reflected on the late leader's unique approach to warfare.

“Imam Khamenei’s genius lay in his ability to design a strategy that utilized Iran’s natural geography, its people’s resolve, and its rich revolutionary history. He knew that Iran’s power would come from within, not from external sources,” Qalibaf explained.

“It is because of his belief in the Iranian people and his strategic acumen that we have succeeded in confronting the most formidable adversaries."

Qalibaf also pointed to the role Ayatollah Khamenei played in molding the country’s armed forces into a force capable of defending Iran’s sovereignty.

"Under his direct guidance, our armed forces have become a model of discipline, morale, and operational effectiveness," he said. “The success of the Iranian military is a direct result of the leadership of Imam Khamenei.”

Iran’s path forward

Qalibaf reaffirmed that the path ahead remains filled with challenges but expressed optimism about Iran’s ability to overcome them.

"This is not just a battle for survival," he stated, "but a battle to uphold the values and rights of the Iranian people.”

“Whether through military strength or diplomatic negotiations, Iran will continue to assert itself and stand firm against any force that seeks to undermine its dignity."

Emphasizing the importance of remaining steadfast in the face of external pressure, Qalibaf called on the Iranian people to continue their support of the revolution’s core principles.

"The revolution is alive, and as long as we stay true to its teachings, no power can break our will," he said.

Press TV’s website can also be accessed at the following alternate addresses:

www.presstv.ir