• Iran warns any U.S. attack, including limited strikes, will be seen as an act of aggression.
• Trump has confirmed contemplating a military response if nuclear negotiations fail.
• Despite tensions, Iran seeks a diplomatic solution regarding its nuclear program.
• Indirect talks between Iran and the U.S. are scheduled to continue in Geneva.
• Iranian officials assert the country will act in self-defense if necessary.

Iran has emphatically stated that any military action by the United States, including the "limited strike" mentioned by President Donald Trump, would be regarded as an "act of aggression" that necessitates a "decisive" response. The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baqaei, asserted, "There is no such thing as a limited strike. An act of aggression is an act of aggression. Period," emphasizing Iran's right to self-defense in such scenarios, according to Dawn and India Times.

As speculation mounts regarding U.S. military action, particularly following the Trump administration's noticeable military build-up in the region, Iranian officials remain firm in their stance. Baqaei reiterated that Iran will respond militarily if provoked, reflecting sentiments originating from earlier tensions when protests against inflation and regime policies occurred in Iran, which rights groups claim resulted in thousands of deaths during government crackdowns, according to India Times and Al Jazeera.

In the context of ongoing indirect negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program, scheduled to continue in Geneva, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed a readiness to engage diplomatically while affirming that Iran's defense capabilities will not be compromised. He stated, "Iran is committed to peace and stability in the region," indicating a cautious approach towards reaching an agreement with the U.S. amidst escalating tensions, according to Al Jazeera.

With U.S. military assets increasingly present in the Middle East, discussions between the countries are sensitive. Trump has publicly questioned why Iran has not "capitulated" given the pressure, a notion Baqaei has refuted by stating that Iranians have "never capitulated at any point in our history." This highlights the significant historical and cultural factors influencing Iran's response to external pressures, as detailed by Dawn and India Times.