Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kan'ani addressed the media on the latest Iranian foreign policy developments and answered a number of questions at his weekly press briefing on Monday.

Kan'ani commented on recent events in Iraq, including the takeover of the parliament building by followers of the Sadrist Movement led by Muqtada Al-Sadr on Saturday, saying that "Iraq is our big and important neighboring country. We monitor Iraq's developments closely, and with concern. Iran stresses that Iraq's stability and security are important to the region."

"We consider the current developments, which seem to be caused by internal political differences, to be part of Iraq's internal affairs, and we believe that Iraqi political movements, parties, and organizations can deal with the current situation in a peaceful way and with mutual respect within the framework of the country's constitution and legal mechanisms," he added. 

Iran seeks a comprehensive deal

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson also pointed to the Vienna talks, saying, "I need to reiterate that Iran has always been creative in the JCPOA revival negotiations. We are seeking a comprehensive, lasting, and strong deal. The latest developments include the serious exchange of messages. Mr. Borrell's text is based on the previous negotiations. Iran has offered its views as well. Other countries are making efforts to bring views closer together."

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"We welcome any initiative in this regard. Tehran has shown the necessary flexibility. After reviewing the EU-proposed text, we reached the conclusion to determine the timing for a new round of talks," Kan'ani said, adding, "We remain optimistic, and we hope the other side would show up with seriousness."

"US imposed unnecessary costs on Iran by withdrawing from JCPOA. Iran acted responsibly in this regard. We expect the US government to act responsibly and return to the 2015 nuclear deal," the Iranian diplomat noted.

"Our talks with the US in all topics are indirect, whether regarding prisoner swap, or the nuclear talks."

Iran ready to provide fuel to Lebanon

"As Lebanon's friend and neighbor, we are more than ready to provide fuel to Beirut, provided an official request is made to us. Lebanon's energy crisis is due to the Western crisis," said Kan'ani regarding the fuel supply to Lebanon by Iran.

The Hezbollah chief expressed Hezbollah's readiness to provide Iranian fuel to Lebanese power plants for free, conditioning the proposal to the Lebanese government's approval.

"Sadly, the Lebanese political class is not bold enough to take such a step out of fear of US sanctions on [politicians] and their families."

Iran supports continuation of ceasefire in Yemen

Speaking about the latest developments in Yemen, Kan'ani said, "Yemen war could have been avoided. Ceasefire in Yemen can begin the political dialogue to resolve the crisis, but it's not enough."

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"Yemen blockade must be lifted. We support the continuation of the ceasefire in Yemen, and we stress complementary steps must be taken in this regard," he continued. 

Iran's balanced, dynamic foreign policy

The Iranian diplomat also spoke about Iran's foreign policy, saying, "Look East policy is part of Iran's balanced and dynamic foreign policy. During the past year, we have witnessed outstanding achievements in our relations with the East."

"We do not seek to make coalitions, and we have a comprehensive overview to both the East and the West. Iran pursues and is serious about the development of relations with any country in any field that is based on interest."