Iran's Foreign Minister Rejects US Demands, Says Talks Possible on Nuclear Program

Strategic Insights -

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has emphasized that his country is open to discussing its nuclear program with world powers, but rejects the idea of negotiating over its missile capabilities. Araghchi made the statements in an interview with the Qatari news network Al-Jazeera, saying that Iran is confident in the peaceful nature of its nuclear program and will not compromise on uranium enrichment. He reiterated that indirect negotiations are possible, but Washington's conditions for a potential agreement are unacceptable. The Iranian diplomat also criticized the European parties to the 2015 nuclear deal for triggering a "snapback" mechanism to restore UN sanctions, saying there is no international consensus on imposing sanctions against Tehran.

Key Takeaways:

  • Araghchi stated that Iran is willing to negotiate with world powers on its nuclear program, but not on its missile capabilities.
  • He emphasized that uranium enrichment is non-negotiable and that Iran will not compromise on its nuclear program.
  • Araghchi criticized the European parties to the 2015 nuclear deal for triggering a "snapback" mechanism, saying it is an unlawful move.
  • He said that indirect negotiations with the US are possible, but Washington's conditions are unacceptable.
  • Iranian diplomat claimed that Iran is prepared for any Israeli act of hostility, and has the highest level of preparedness at all levels.
  • Araghchi stated that Iran succeeded in testing its missiles in real combat during the June war with Israel.
  • He also claimed that the US attack on Iranian nuclear sites on June 13 was a grave violation of the UN Charter, international law, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

Statistics:

  • 5: The number of rounds of talks on a replacement for the 2015 nuclear deal held prior to the US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran in mid-June.
  • 1: Nuclear materials still remaining under the rubble at the Iranian nuclear sites after the June 13 US attack.
  • 3: The number of Iranian nuclear sites bombed by the US on June 13.
  • 24: June 24, the date on which Iran ultimately succeeded in halting the war with Israel through its retaliatory operations.

Sources:

  • "Iran ready for any Israeli act of hostility", Interview with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Al-Jazeera, Saturday (exact date not provided).
  • 2015 nuclear deal, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
  • Press TV (exact date of publication not provided).