Iran says it does not trust Israel

Iran does not trust Israel and remains fully prepared to defend its national sovereignty against any potential threats, the country’s foreign ministry spokesperson has said.

Speaking at a weekly press conference on Monday, Esmaeil Baghaei said Iran’s security posture would not change in response to media reports suggesting possible mediation efforts by Russian President Vladimir Putin between Iran and Israel.

Baghaei said such reports were largely speculative and circulating in the media, adding that Tehran did not base its security decisions on statements or positions issued by Israel.

He stressed that Iran and its armed forces remained focused on safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity and maintaining readiness to respond to any threat.

Addressing ongoing protests inside Iran, Baghaei accused the United States and Israel of interfering in Iran’s internal affairs. He said public statements made by officials in both countries were encouraging unrest and violence.

Baghaei added that Iranian institutions were closely monitoring developments and the actions of what he described as “the other side”, including political messaging and activity on the ground.

On Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump said he was closely following developments related to the protests in Iran.

Baghaei reiterated that Iran’s approach remained defensive in nature, centred on protecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

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