Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baghaei confirmed that the Islamic Republic will continue to defend the country as required by its interests, stressing that it will not allow the United States to determine the time or duration of war and peace. Baghaei considered that "Ukraine's targeting of an Iranian ship represents a dangerous adventure," stressing that this matter "will not remain without a response." Baghaei concluded by stressing that his country "will defend its lands and use the diplomatic path in accordance with its national interests."