Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warns that upcoming negotiations with the United States will not prevent uranium enrichment activities, despite expectations of a second round of talks.
Key Statements at International Forum
Speaking at an international forum on U.S.-Iran nuclear cooperation, bilateral relations, and Israeli airstrikes, Araghchi highlighted positive outcomes from prior discussions. However, he stressed that the threat of military conflict remains palpable.
Araghchi noted that dialogue offers the sole avenue to influence outcomes, with U.S. representatives also participating in informal meetings. Iran’s policy remains firm, advocating for swift follow-up talks without altering its core positions.
Uranium Enrichment Stance
Addressing uranium enrichment directly, Araghchi stated, “We lack the means to defend it outright; negotiations are imperative.” He added that “even airstrikes fail to fully dismantle enrichment facilities.”
His central argument underscores the need for diplomatic resolution on enrichment through joint efforts. Araghchi cautioned that while cooperation is ideal for nuclear issues, U.S. disregard for UN sanctions and aggressive pressure could prompt Iran to target American warships strategically.
Response to Israeli Actions
On Israel’s missile interceptions, Araghchi framed the matter as “essential for national security” and dismissed any major disruption to cooperative efforts.
Iran rejects expanding the nuclear dispute internationally, particularly alongside U.S. financial incentives. Major U.S.-Iran dialogues resume roughly eight months after a U.S. operation targeted Iranian nuclear facilities last June.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump described the talks as “very good,” but warned, “Without compromise from Iran, the results will prove extremely painful.”
