TABNAK, Apr 09 - Iran’s foreign minister says the US is well aware of the formidable nature of the Islamic Republic’s defensive capabilities, while underlining the country’s sufficient preparedness to defend itself, and noting that the Islamic Republic does not trust Washington, but will nonetheless test it in upcoming indirect negotiations.

The Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, Major General Mohammad Baqeri, praised that the offensive and defensive capabilities of the Armed Forces are key to ensuring sustainable and effective deterrence.