Araghchi: Enrichment in Iran is a fundamental issue

In an interview with Al-Sharq network, Araghchi reiterated: “Enrichment in Iran is a fundamental and principled issue. It is a significant scientific achievement in a very complex domain, achieved by Iranian scientists. Iran’s enrichment is not imported; it has been developed and produced by us. Therefore, it holds immense value for the Iranian people, especially since we have endured years of sanctions because of enrichment, and the Iranian nation has borne the hardships of these sanctions for it. Most importantly, several of our scientists were assassinated and martyred for their role in enrichment. Thus, the blood of our martyrs is tied to this robust tree of enrichment, and it is absolutely non-negotiable.”

He continued: “The situation we are in is by no means Iran’s fault. The blame lies with the United States for withdrawing from the JCPOA and with European countries for failing to compensate for America’s exit. What did we do? We remained committed to our obligations, but when they couldn’t fulfill Iran’s economic commitments, we reduced our own commitments. Therefore, threatening Iran with the ‘snapback’ mechanism or trigger is completely illogical, lacks any legal or political basis, and, in our view, would be a grave mistake if Europe pursues this path.”

Araghchi added: “Europe must bear the consequences of such an action. We have previously discussed this with Europeans and told them that if they take such a step, there will be consequences, and Europe must take responsibility for them.”

Highlighting Iran’s foreign relations, Araghchi noted: “Our relations with Saudi Arabia are currently in a very good state. Since we restored ties, we have cooperated well and developed greater mutual understanding. We share common views on many regional and Islamic world issues.”

He further stated: “I can say we have close communications with Cairo and Manama, separate from the political relations between our countries. Diplomatic ties have not yet been established, but the will exists on both sides. We are waiting for the right conditions to realize diplomatic relations.”

Araghchi emphasized: “We are serious about fostering good neighborly relations with our region and have moved in this direction. We have established very good political, economic, and cultural relations with all our neighbors and surrounding countries.”

The Foreign Minister expressed satisfaction with the lifting of U.S. sanctions on the Syrian people, adding: “We hope Syria moves toward greater stability, enhanced territorial unity, the end of the Israeli regime’s occupation, and unity among all ethnic groups.”

Referring to the current lack of relations between Tehran and Damascus, Araghchi said: “We are in no rush to establish relations. Whenever the Syrian government determines that relations with Iran can benefit the Syrian people, we are ready to respond to their request.”