Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi asserted that there is currently no serious basis for genuine and fruitful negotiations with the United States, while simultaneously warning that any hostile act against Iran would be met with a very harsh and strong response.
Araqchi’s remarks came during an interview with CNN Türk, amid escalating American threats that include the military option among their scenarios for dealing with Tehran.
Araqchi explained that talk of negotiations cannot be serious while the atmosphere of threats and pressure persists, stating that “any genuine negotiations require first removing this atmosphere,” and emphasizing that entering into a superficial or artificial negotiating process “will not lead to any tangible results.”
He pointed out that “without prior agreement on the framework, content, and rules of the negotiations, no progress will be achieved,” considering that past experiences have proven that negotiations under pressure or dictates cannot lead to a fair or sustainable agreement.
Regarding relations with Washington, Araqchi stated that the United States often attempts to communicate with Iran through third parties. He emphasized that his country is not opposed to communication or dialogue, but stipulates that it must be based on clear and fair principles. He added, “Iran is ready for fair and balanced diplomacy, but negotiations cannot be imposed, and without mutual respect and parity of terms, no equitable agreement can be reached.”
The Iranian Foreign Minister addressed the possibility of military escalation, warning of the consequences of any attack targeting his country. He said, “If any attack occurs, our response will be very harsh and strong,” noting that Iran possesses the necessary capabilities to defend itself and “does not need to rely on any party.”
In the same context, Araqchi stressed that his country’s priority remains the diplomatic track, despite the threats, considering dialogue the best option to avoid further tension in the region. He added, “We hope that reason will prevail and that dialogue will be chosen instead of escalation, because any confrontation will not be in anyone’s interest.”
He concluded by saying that Iran is open to any serious negotiating path that respects its sovereignty and takes into account its interests, stressing that diplomacy will remain our first option, but at the same time we are ready to defend ourselves by all available means.
Source: Iranian media (edite dby Al-Manar)