AMMAN, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Jordan said Monday it will not allow its territory or airspace to be used in any regional conflict or as a "launching pad" for military action against Iran, warning it would respond to any violation of its sovereignty.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi made the remarks during a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, the Jordanian Foreign Ministry said. Safadi stressed that Jordan would use all available means to counter any attempt to breach its airspace or threaten the country's security and the safety of its citizens.
Discussing the Iranian nuclear issue, Safadi said diplomacy and dialogue are the only viable paths to a resolution, reiterating Jordan's support for de-escalation efforts and the restoration of regional calm. He reaffirmed Amman's rejection of any violation of state sovereignty and called for respect for international law.
The two ministers agreed to maintain communication and coordination on regional developments and ongoing diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions.
Tensions between Tehran and Washington remain high amid increased U.S. military activity in the region. The Trump administration deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and additional warships to the Middle East in late January.
On Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump warned that if Iran fails to reach a nuclear deal with Washington, "we will find out" whether Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was right in saying a U.S. attack could trigger a regional war.
Araghchi said in a CNN interview that a "just, fair and equitable" nuclear agreement with the United States remains achievable in the near term, provided Washington abandons what he described as coercive policies.
Earlier Monday, Iran's semi-official Fars news agency reported that President Masoud Pezeshkian had ordered the start of negotiations with the United States within the framework of the nuclear issue, citing an unnamed government source. ■
