Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that negotiations with the United States, facilitated by Pakistan, have not collapsed but are encountering significant challenges. Speaking at a press conference in New Delhi, he highlighted Iran’s deep mistrust of Washington due to conflicting signals coming from the US side.
Araghchi clarified that Iran did not initiate any conflict but acted in self-defense, and the country is striving to uphold a ceasefire. He dismissed claims that Iran was responsible for disturbances in the Strait of Hormuz, explaining that the waterway remains closed only to nations engaged in hostilities against Tehran.
He noted that Iranian naval forces have ensured the safe passage of several Indian vessels through the strait, describing the situation as highly complex. Araghchi stressed that ships must coordinate with Iran’s navy to transit the strategic waterway safely.
Regarding the ongoing talks, Araghchi stated Iran’s willingness to negotiate depends on the sincerity of the other party. However, he reiterated the lack of trust in the United States, attributing it to contradictory messages that have raised doubts about Washington’s true intentions. Despite this, he expressed hope that diplomacy and prudence would eventually prevail.
On Iran’s nuclear program, Araghchi reaffirmed that Tehran has no ambitions to develop nuclear weapons, insisting its nuclear activities remain peaceful and will continue as such.
Turning to Iran’s relations with Russia, he described the partnership as very strong and strategic. He mentioned recent constructive discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, including Russia’s proposal to transfer uranium enrichment capabilities to Iran, a suggestion Iran is currently not considering. He also noted that negotiations with the US on this matter remain at an impasse.
Araghchi criticized Israel and the United States for failing to protect the United Arab Emirates in the past, asserting that Iranian forces have only targeted US military bases in the Gulf nation.
Regarding Pakistan’s role in mediating the US-Iran talks, he acknowledged that while the process is difficult and marked by mutual distrust, it has not failed. He reiterated Iran’s openness to diplomacy but emphasized that inconsistent messages from Washington have fueled skepticism.
