(MENAFN) Iran expressed deep skepticism on Sunday about the durability of the US-mediated ceasefire with Israel, emphasizing its readiness to respond forcefully if any new aggression occurs.

“Since we are completely doubtful about the enemy honoring its commitments, including the ceasefire, we are prepared to give it a tough response in case of recurrence of an act of aggression," stated Iran’s Chief of Staff, Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, during a phone conversation with Saudi Arabia’s Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman.

Mousavi pointed out that Israel and the US launched their strikes while Iran was engaged in indirect nuclear talks with Washington. “The two regimes have shown that they do not adhere to any international rules and norms,” he added.

He also stressed, “We did not initiate war, but we responded with all our power to the aggressor.”

Saudi Arabia’s official news agency confirmed the call, noting that the two defense officials also discussed bilateral relations and regional developments.

The 12-day conflict began on June 13 when Israel conducted air raids against Iranian military, nuclear, and civilian sites, resulting in at least 606 deaths and over 5,300 injuries, according to Iranian health authorities.

The US further escalated the conflict by bombing Iran’s nuclear facilities in Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan.

In retaliation, Tehran launched missile and drone attacks targeting Israel, causing at least 29 fatalities and injuring more than 3,400, based on reports from a Jerusalem-based academic source.

The fighting ceased following a US-brokered ceasefire that went into effect on June 24.

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