Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Thursday that while the country does not seek conflict with either Israel or the United States, it stands ready to respond decisively to any future attacks. Speaking to reporters in Beirut at the start of a two-day visit, Araghchi emphasized Iran’s openness to negotiations regarding its nuclear program, provided these talks respect Iran’s sovereignty and interests.
His remarks come amid escalating tensions, particularly following a 12-day military conflict initiated by Israel in June, during which the country targeted Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists. The United States also conducted airstrikes on Iranian nuclear enrichment facilities during this period. Araghchi warned that should either the U.S. or Israel choose to attack again, they would encounter the same level of failure as before.
Iran’s Stance on Nuclear Negotiations
“America and Israel have tested their attack on Iran, and this strategy faced extreme failure,” Araghchi stated. “If they repeat it, they will face the same results.” He stressed that Iran is prepared for “any choice,” reinforcing that while the nation does not desire war, it is fully equipped to defend itself if necessary.
The backdrop of these comments is significant; in February, Donald Trump reinstated a “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran aimed at curbing its nuclear ambitions. This initiative included U.S.-led strikes on three key Iranian enrichment sites in June. Araghchi reiterated that Iran remains ready for negotiations, but insisted that they must be grounded in mutual respect rather than unilateral demands from Washington.
“We believe that once the Americans reach the outcome that constructive and positive negotiations rather than ordering dictation are the framework, then the results of these negotiations become fruitful,” he explained. This reflects Iran’s longstanding position that its nuclear program is peaceful, despite concerns from Western nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) about Iran’s past nuclear weapons program, which reportedly existed until 2003.
Continued Tensions and Future Prospects
Following Trump’s withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal in June 2018, Iran began enriching uranium up to 60% purity, a level that is a short technical step away from weapons-grade material. This development has heightened global anxieties regarding Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
In late December, Trump issued a warning to Iran, suggesting that further military action could be taken if the country attempts to resume its nuclear program. This statement was made during discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida.
The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further diplomatic engagements or military escalations depending on future actions taken by both Iran and its adversaries.
