Araghchi Unveils Iran’s Current Position on Nuclear Talks and IAEA Cooperation

In a recent televised interview, Seyed Abbas Araghchi discussed the ongoing situation in Gaza and expressed Iran’s unwavering stance on humanitarian issues. The discussion centered around the ceasefire in Gaza, with Araghchi emphasizing that Iran has consistently supported any plan aimed at halting the genocide occurring in the region. He highlighted the need for decisive actions at international forums to address these grave humanitarian concerns.

During the interview, Araghchi conveyed a deep skepticism towards the trustworthiness of the Zionist regime, stating, “It is natural that Iran has issued the necessary warnings about this issue and will continue to do so.” He elaborated on the current state of the ceasefire, revealing that while the initial phase has been implemented, a significant portion of Gaza remains under Israeli occupation. He remarked on the uncertainty surrounding the full withdrawal of Israeli forces.

Araghchi further explained the Iranian Foreign Ministry’s position regarding the ceasefire: “It is not a moderate stance, but a realistic one. We support stopping the genocide, providing aid to the people of Gaza, and ensuring their rights are upheld.” He emphasized that this stance is grounded in realism rather than political moderation.

Key points from the interview include:

• Warnings Against Deception: Araghchi stressed the importance of vigilance regarding potential tricks and betrayals from the Zionist regime, particularly in relation to past agreements and ongoing negotiations.
• No Negotiations with the US: He clarified that there have been no exchanges or negotiations with the United States regarding any matters outside of Iran’s nuclear program.
• Criticism of Abraham Accords: Addressing Donald Trump’s comments on Iran joining the Abraham Accords, Araghchi dismissed the idea, stating that such an alignment is fundamentally incompatible with the ideals of the Islamic Revolution.

“The current US administration has repeatedly shown that its positions and claims change constantly,” he noted. Araghchi pointed out that many regional foreign ministers share skepticism regarding the US’s commitment to the ceasefire, highlighting a lack of trust in promises made by American and Western officials.

When discussing the “snapback” mechanism and communications from European countries, he asserted that Iran does not accept a comprehensive agreement without proper negotiations, which have not taken place. He stated, “Negotiations will only be about Iran’s nuclear program.”

Araghchi challenged the three European countries involved in negotiations, questioning their rationale for continued discussions given the US’s withdrawal from the agreement and subsequent violations. He stated, “We see no grounds for negotiation with these three countries now, and the concept of ‘the trioka’ is not relevant to us.”

He also addressed rumors regarding supposed communications with US officials, specifically rejecting claims of a phone call with Witkoff. Instead, he confirmed that communications are conducted through intermediary nations.

In discussing the snapback proposal, Araghchi remarked that the US’s demand for Iran to hand over enriched material was excessive, which contributed to the failure of negotiations in New York. He explained that the US’s insistence on preconditions for negotiations was not acceptable to Iran.

Araghchi emphasized that Iran has made reasonable proposals during negotiations, which have been acknowledged as reasonable by international figures like Macron. “We have done everything possible without compromising Iran’s interests,” he stated.

Looking ahead, Araghchi asserted that any proposals from the US must be based on mutual interests that are reasonable, balanced, and logical. He affirmed Iran’s commitment to its enrichment rights, indicating that while Iran is open to examining proposals, they must respect Iran’s rights and interests.

Regarding the Cairo agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), he noted that the agreement is currently suspended due to the changed circumstances and actions of the three European countries. He assured that any requests from the IAEA would be evaluated based on national security considerations.

Araghchi described the Tehran research reactor’s role in producing isotopic and nuclear medicine, emphasizing the necessity for IAEA supervision during its fuel stages. He clarified that relations with the Agency will not be completely severed, as decisions will be made by the Supreme National Security Council based on national interests.

He concluded with a reminder that currently, there are no requests for negotiations with the US, underscoring past experiences that have shaped Iran’s approach to discussions. “This does not mean that if a reasonable, fair, and balanced proposal is presented based on mutual respect and equality, we will not examine it,” he stated. “We will definitely review it and, if it serves the people’s interests, we will consider it.”

In summary, Araghchi’s remarks reflect Iran’s firm stance on its rights and interests amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding the situation in Gaza and its nuclear program.

Source: MNA/6619147