ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi categorically rejected claims of truce negotiations with Israel amid recent hostilities, emphasizing that Tehran ended its retaliatory actions only after Israel unilaterally agreed to halt attacks “out of desperation” and without preconditions.
No Ceasefire Talks, Only Unilateral Israeli Halt
In a detailed televised interview, Araghchi dismissed reports suggesting any formal ceasefire discussions took place during the 12-day conflict that began on June 13. “We did not enter any truce negotiations. Ceasefire is a product of dialogue—we held none,” he said, adding that Iran’s military operations ceased only after Israel acknowledged it could no longer sustain the damage inflicted by retaliatory strikes.
“The Zionist regime requested an end to our retaliatory operations. They realised they could no longer sustain the damage,” Araghchi explained.
Warning of Strong Response to Future Violations
Reiterating statements from Iran’s top military officials, Araghchi warned that any future Israeli breach would be met with a swift and decisive reaction. “Iran is not Lebanon. Any breach will be met forcefully,” he said, expressing deep mistrust towards Israel’s peace commitments, referencing its past actions in Gaza and Lebanon.
Nuclear Talks with the US Under Review
Araghchi also addressed the status of indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States, which were suspended following the outbreak of hostilities. “We’re currently reviewing whether to return to negotiations, and our decision will be based solely on national interest,” he stated, criticizing US pressure on Iran’s nuclear program as “baseless” and “politically motivated.”
Regional Support and Diplomatic Stance
Highlighting international support, Araghchi noted backing from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council (PGCC), the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and BRICS countries. He claimed this support demonstrates Iran’s rising global stature and integration into the international arena.
Missile Strikes on US Base: A Message to Washington
Responding to Iran’s missile strikes on a US military base in Qatar, Araghchi clarified that the attacks were aimed at sending a message to Washington rather than threatening Arab nations. “If the US strikes us from bases in your territory, we will be compelled to respond to those bases. But this is not aimed at you,” he said.
Araghchi added that prior to the strikes, he communicated with the six Gulf Cooperation Council foreign ministers to explain Iran’s position and underscored Iran’s commitment to peaceful regional relations.
Commitment to Regional Cooperation
Concluding his remarks, Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s focus on fostering regional cooperation, especially with Gulf countries and Iraq. “Our message to the region is clear: peace, friendship, and cooperation. We want to move forward collectively, without interference from outside powers,” he said.
