Iran on Saturday expressed scepticism that Israel would respect the terms of the Gaza ceasefire, which came into effect a day earlier after two years of conflict.

“We warn about the tricks and betrayals of the Zionist regime (Israel) regarding previous agreements… There is absolutely no trust in the Zionist regime,” said Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, citing past ceasefires that had been violated, including those in Lebanon.

Despite its distrust, Araghchi reiterated Iran’s support for the ceasefire: “Any plan that serves to halt these (Israel’s) crimes has always had our support.”

The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated on Thursday that the Islamic Republic has consistently backed initiatives aimed at:

• Stopping the war, described by Iran as genocidal
• Withdrawal of occupying forces
• Delivery of humanitarian aid
• Release of Palestinian prisoners
• Realisation of fundamental Palestinian rights

In June, Iran and Israel engaged in a 12-day conflict, triggered by Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear and military installations—actions described as unprecedented.

Araghchi noted that Iran had received a message relayed by Russia, indicating that Israel did not seek a new confrontation with Tehran.

“Apparently three or four days ago there was a telephone call between (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu and (Russian President Vladimir) Putin,” he said.
“Netanyahu emphasised that he had no intention of restarting a war with Iran,” he added, noting that the message was communicated to Tehran’s ambassador in Russia.

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