Iranian Lawmaker: Iran Has "Never Left the Negotiating Table"

Odaily reports, according to Iranian sources on the 19th, an Iranian parliamentarian stated in an interview that Iran has never initiated a war and has never left the negotiating table. The lawmaker also stated that negotiations should be based on respect and the recognition of the legitimate rights of the Iranian people. He said the country does not desire a state of war, as war would inflict damage on infrastructure and the populace. However, should war and confrontation occur, Iran is capable of responding with equal or even greater force. (CCTV)