Tehran says neighbouring countries allowed territory to be used during military operations
TEHRAN: Iran on Monday accused some countries in the region of supporting US military operations against Tehran by allowing their territories to be used during the attacks, while reaffirming its desire to maintain positive relations with neighbouring states.
Speaking at a weekly press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said Iran holds the United States responsible for the military campaign that began on February 28. He further alleged that certain regional countries participated in the operation or facilitated it by providing access to their territory.
Baqaei said Iran remains committed to strengthening relations with Gulf nations and emphasised that the countries share longstanding political, economic and cultural interests that could promote greater trust and cooperation.
However, he claimed that some governments acted contrary to international law and the principles of good neighbourliness by assisting the military operation. Gulf countries have repeatedly denied participating in US attacks against Iran and have instead accused Tehran of targeting civilian infrastructure during its own strikes.
Talks with Washington remain on hold
Baqaei also dismissed reports suggesting Iran had requested negotiations with the United States, saying no direct talks are currently taking place.
He described diplomacy as an important tool for protecting Iran’s national interests but said any future negotiations would depend on changes in Washington’s conduct. While acknowledging that mediators may be exchanging messages between the two sides, he said there were no active negotiations with US officials.
The spokesperson further criticised US policy, accusing Washington of disregarding international law and stating that improved behaviour would be necessary before meaningful dialogue could resume.
Military tensions show signs of easing
Separately, Iranian military spokesperson Amir Mohammad Akraminia said on Sunday that US attacks had stopped over the previous two days and that Iran had also suspended what it described as counter-operations.
Meanwhile, Axios reported on Saturday that US President Donald Trump had instructed the US military not to launch additional strikes against Iran, potentially ending nearly two weeks of daily military action.
Despite those developments, tensions between Washington and Tehran remain high following recent exchanges of strikes and continuing diplomatic disagreements over regional security and future negotiations.
