Iran’s FM: No Conviction Yet to Resume Nuclear Talks with U.S.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Saturday that Tehran remains unconvinced of the utility of resuming negotiations with Washington, citing the need for “a genuine will from the other side aimed at reaching a mutually beneficial solution.”

In an interview with China’s CGTN, Araghchi emphasized that the recent escalation was not a mere conflict but “a blatant act of aggression by Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran.” He said Iran had no choice but to defend itself, and that its response had forced the attackers to retreat and seek an unconditional ceasefire.

“We stood our ground bravely and compelled the aggressors to step back and request a ceasefire — which we accepted,” Araghchi said. “However, this ceasefire remains fragile. Given the track record of this \[Israeli] entity, we cannot trust it. We remain fully prepared for any possible violations.”

Araghchi reiterated that Iran did not initiate the war and does not wish for it to continue. “We were prepared for it, and we remain ready in case it reignites — although we do not seek its prolongation,” he said.

Addressing the future of the nuclear deal, the foreign minister stressed that Iran is still waiting to witness seriousness from its counterparts. “We are fully confident that our nuclear program is entirely peaceful, and we are open to sharing this certainty — but that can only happen through negotiations.”

Referring to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) reached with the P5+1 group, Araghchi noted it was widely welcomed internationally, but the United States’ unilateral withdrawal from the agreement derailed its progress. “That unfortunate decision has led directly to the current situation,” he remarked.

When asked about the possibility of returning to the nuclear accord, Araghchi responded: “Yes, I believe it is possible. But, as I said, it depends on a real will from the other side. The military option must be ruled out, and the path forward must be through diplomatic solutions.”

He concluded by stressing that the recent attack on Iranian nuclear facilities proved that military approaches are ineffective. “There is no solution but a negotiated diplomatic one — and that will only materialize if the other side abandons military ambitions and begins to make amends for the damage done. Only then will Iran be ready to return to the negotiating table.”