Araghchi: No one in Iran will abandon the nuclear program

In an interview with Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, Araghchi emphasized that Iran has never initiated a war and has only acted in self-defense in response to aggression.

He added, “First, it must be determined whether the aggressor is truly capable of implementing and maintaining a ceasefire, or if—as in the past—Israel’s internal rivalries will once again use the ceasefire as a tool to manage domestic crises. Iran has never been the initiator, and as long as we are attacked, we will continue to defend ourselves. Even now, any response will be within that framework.”

The Foreign Minister went on to say that “America’s entry into the war signified Israel’s weakness and collapse. They thought U.S. involvement would force us to surrender, but our strong missile response, particularly using Kheibar-Shekan missiles, forced them to retreat and turn to a diplomatic ceasefire.”

Araghchi stressed, “We accepted the ceasefire to preserve our moral superiority and to turn it into a foundation for a new policy rooted in Islamic and regional values. The support of Islamic countries and regional peoples strengthened this step and further isolated Israel.”

Regarding the attack on Al-Udeid Air Base, Araghchi said, “It was part of our right to self-defense against U.S. military and intelligence bases in the region—not an attack on Qatar’s sovereignty. We respect our historical, social, and strategic relations with our neighbors, including Qatar. This was a defensive action and not in violation of the sovereignty of any neighboring country.”

He further explained that the U.S. sent messages before and after the attack through various indirect and diplomatic channels to avoid misunderstandings and escalation. “We told all intermediaries that as long as aggression continues, returning to the negotiating table with the U.S. is not an option. We’ve also conveyed this stance to the Europeans and are currently waiting to see how things develop.”

According to Araghchi, “Iran will resist powerfully. Contrary to our enemies’ expectations that our initial response would bring surrender, our precise missile retaliation, national unity, and the people’s perseverance have shown Iran remains strong.”

He continued, “The government has defended the nation’s rights both on the battlefield and at the negotiation table. These aggressions have only strengthened Iran’s resolve. Our people and scientists have stood firm over the years—under sanctions, and now in war. No one in Iran will ever abandon the nuclear program—a transparent program under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).”

Speaking on Iran’s relations with the IAEA, he said, “It’s too early to judge the details, but there’s no doubt these attacks will have serious impacts on the nuclear program’s course. For years we’ve shown commitment to the NPT, but the treaty has failed to protect our program. IAEA reports have been helpful, but we also have concerns about possible political motives behind them. We must reassess how we protect our nuclear facilities.”

He explained, “Our main goal in pursuing active diplomacy during wartime is to highlight the aggression on the global stage, mobilize political support, and build deterrence. Diplomacy is effective even in war: we worked to engage regional countries and the Islamic community. Arab media played a key role in public solidarity.”

Commenting on the Geneva talks, he said, “The Geneva dialogues helped clarify Iran’s position, refute unfounded accusations, and strengthen the European belief that ‘there is no military solution.’ Both sides are ready to continue discussions—not for a final agreement, since Europe lacks the power to lift sanctions, but for mutual understanding.”

Araghchi also mentioned his recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling it “excellent.” He said, “Russia took a firm stance against the U.S. and Israeli attacks. There is extensive nuclear cooperation between the two countries, and coordination at this stage was highly necessary and constructive.”

He concluded, “Almost all countries in the region condemned this aggression—some more strongly than others. Public support came with unprecedented expression, through tweets, articles, and media coverage. This solidarity clearly marks a historic turning point. Arab media and analysts played a vital role in delivering this message.”