Speaking at the presentation ceremony of the book titled "The 12-Day Battle and the Question of Iran's National Brand," Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated that the challenges the country has faced in recent years have provided a significant opportunity for society to define its stance on Iran's core issues.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, Baghaei emphasized that for decades, negative propaganda directed against Iran has been presented as reality in global public opinion.
Baghaei noted that the negative narrative formed against Iran has not only harmed the country's international image but has also created a pretext for the adoption of various restrictive measures against it. According to him, Iran has been portrayed as a threat in the international arena, and the nuclear issue has been manipulated to reinforce the perception that there is no alternative to confrontation.
The Iranian official described this approach as a process of "demonization and dehumanization," stating that the country has been discredited through various stereotypes to legitimize actions taken against it.
Baghaei asserted that events over the past year and a half have shattered several outdated perceptions regarding Iran. He argued that claims suggesting Iran's governance structure depends on individual figures and that the country would weaken with leadership changes have proven unfounded.
"Iran's operative reaction and the resilience of its institutions have demonstrated that this country is based on institutions, not individuals," Baghaei said. He further contrasted this with the United States, noting that despite the U.S. being presented as an institution-based state, it remains susceptible to the influence of specific individuals and groups.
Baghaei concluded that Iran's behavior during the recent period of conflict has showcased the country's potential not only in the military sphere but also in the diplomatic and intellectual arenas. He added that if the experience gained during this period is evaluated correctly, it could pave the way for Iran to emerge as a stronger state in the future.
Context: The discourse surrounding Iran's international image remains a central theme in its foreign policy strategy, particularly as the nation navigates ongoing geopolitical tensions and international sanctions. Tehran frequently utilizes such platforms to counter Western narratives and assert the stability of its domestic governance.
