Tehran: Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi asserts that Iran maintains the capability to enrich uranium, adhering to a fatwa from its Leader banning the possession of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs). Araqchi’s comments came during an interview with the Financial Times, where he elaborated on the stringent conditions Iran requires for renewed diplomatic engagement following a recent conflict.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Araqchi emphasized the limited pathway for negotiation, demanding that the United States compensate Iran for damages sustained during last month’s conflict. The U.S. briefly joined the 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel, despite ongoing discussions with Tehran. Araqchi insisted that Iran would not return to “business as usual” and stressed the need for explanations and assurances from the U.S. to prevent future military aggression during talks.
In communications with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, Araqchi highlighted the necessity for a “win-win solution” to the nuclear stand-off, while underscoring the importance of confidence-building measures from the U.S. These measures include financial compensation and guarantees against attacks during negotiations. Araqchi reiterated that a negotiated settlement, rather than military action, is the viable path forward for resolving disputes over Iran’s nuclear program.
Araqchi also disclosed details about a new enrichment facility near Isfahan, which was targeted during the conflict despite not being operational at the time. He pointed out the growing resistance to negotiations within Iran’s leadership due to the recent war, which has heightened skepticism towards U.S. intentions, particularly under President Donald Trump’s administration.
The minister reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to a peaceful nuclear program, aligned with the longstanding fatwa against nuclear weapons by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, Araqchi conveyed the deep-seated distrust of Trump, who withdrew from the 2015 nuclear agreement. Araqchi concluded that Iran would not entertain zero enrichment as a precondition for talks, inviting Washington to address its concerns through dialogue rather than demands.