Tehran: Former Vice President for Strategic Affairs Mohammad-Javad Zarif has articulated that diplomacy remains the only reasonable path forward. In an opinion piece published by Al Jazeera English, Zarif emphasized the enduring importance of diplomatic efforts in fostering a future of common vision and hope.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Zarif reflected on the historical significance of the Iran nuclear deal, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which was announced on July 14, ten years ago. He highlighted that this diplomatic achievement peacefully resolved what he described as an unnecessary crisis, which was initially fueled by misinformation and a policy of securitization aimed at diverting global focus from genuine nuclear threats in West Asia.

Zarif criticized the Israeli leadership, particularly Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and others within what he termed the Israeli nuclear apartheid regime. He asserted that they view peace and stability as existential threats and have pledged to undermine the JCPOA. He also addressed recent acts of aggression by the U.S. and Israel against Iran, accusing them of targeting safeguarded nuclear facilities and engaging in actions he labeled as war crimes.

Zarif accused Israel of escalating aggression by targeting national leaders, which he suggested was an attempt to destabilize the region. He also criticized the U.S. for supporting Israel’s actions, noting that the U.S., despite being the only nation to have used nuclear weapons, targeted Iran’s nuclear sites in a failed effort to hinder its peaceful nuclear progress.

Furthermore, Zarif expressed disappointment with the actions of France, Germany, and the UK, along with the EU. He accused them of undermining the JCPOA by threatening to invoke dispute resolution mechanisms and failing to meet their economic and financial commitments to Iran. He argued that their actions have effectively terminated their status as JCPOA participants by disavowing its core principles.