TEHRAN — Iran’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei condemned Saturday’s military strikes by Israel and the United States, asserting that the country’s armed forces would decisively defend its sovereignty.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran’s armed forces will decisively defend the country,” Baghaei stated to Mehr News Agency. “This is a national struggle imposed upon us.”

The attacks prompted a swift response from the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC), with missile and drone launches targeting Israel and several U.S. bases in the region, occurring less than two hours after the strikes. Baghaei emphasized that the U.S.-Israeli actions constituted a blatant violation of international law, occurring during the holy month of Ramadan and just before the Persian New Year.

“This action is a clear crime and a violation of international law,” Baghaei stressed. “It occurs on the tenth day of the holy month of Ramadan and on the eve of Nowruz, and has no justification.”

The Foreign Ministry’s spokesman refuted claims from U.S. President Donald Trump that the attacks were intended to protect the American people. “This is a blatant lie,” he said. “The Islamic Republic of Iran has always emphasized the peaceful use of energy and has never initiated a war.”

The situation has drawn condemnation from some international observers, although a unified response from the UN Security Council appears unlikely. Baghaei warned that the escalating conflict could threaten the stability of international norms.

“This attack… could mark the beginning of the end for international institutions and norms,” he added. “And should bring concern to all countries.”

The diplomat stressed that the attacks are not only illegal but demand a serious response from the international community.

Iran and the U.S. had agreed to attend a fourth round of nuclear talks in Vienna next week, following their most serious discussions in Geneva on Thursday. The U.S. previously derailed diplomatic negotiations with Iran in June 2025, launching a bombing campaign against Iran in conjunction with Israel ahead of a scheduled sixth round of negotiations.

Baghaei also warned that Iran would have no choice but to target any regional country that allows the U.S. and Israel to carry out further attacks against Iran from their airspace.

"Iranians are peace-loving and peace-seeking people, but are steadfast and determined in defending their dignity, national sovereignty, and territorial integrity, acting with all their might. It was not Iran that started this war."