Iran's government, through Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, emphasized its resolve to continue the war until U.S. President Donald Trump recognizes that it is an 'illegal war' without a prospect of victory. In a phone interview with CBS's 'Face the Nation', Araghchi countered Trump's assertion that Iran is seeking negotiations, stating that Iran has never requested a ceasefire or negotiations. This response came after Trump claimed that Iran wants to negotiate, albeit under unsuitable conditions, and insisted that any agreement must include a commitment from Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions.

Araghchi criticized Trump for what he termed as a war chosen by the U.S. which results in casualties without justification, asserting Iran's right to self-defense. He questioned the point of returning to dialogue when the U.S. decided to attack while discussions were ongoing. Furthermore, he claimed that Iran's military actions are focused solely on U.S. assets, facilities, and troops, and pointed to a recent attack on U.S. islands involving Emirati territory, arguing that attacks on Iranian interests were being ignored by broader geopolitical discourse.

Regarding the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi confirmed Iran's willingness to engage with countries asking for safe passage for their vessels, highlighting that specific nations have already been allowed passage. He reiterated that Iran continues to defend its maritime sovereignty amidst ongoing threats from U.S. and Israeli operations, marking the region as a critical flashpoint in U.S.-Iran relations that could have broader implications for international security in the Gulf region and beyond.