Abbas Araghchi called the attack “clear act of aggression” and accused the United States of undermining peace and stability in the region.
“The American government is pursuing a path of warmongering and bears full responsibility for this action,” Araghchi said. “Alongside military measures, Iran will also pursue legal avenues to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Iranian FM said that the U.S. had “betrayed” Iran and yielded to the demands of “a criminal regime,” calling the strikes a violation of international law, the UN Charter, and Security Council Resolution 2231.
Araghchi emphasized that the escalation endangered global security and promoted “a law-of-the-jungle mentality.” He called on the UN Security Council, its Secretary-General, and other international organizations to fulfill their responsibilities in responding to the reckless and unlawful act.
He further stated that Iran holds the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency accountable for his role and that the U.S. “must accept the consequences” of its actions.
Araghchi stated regarding the conditions for Iran's return to negotiations: "We were attacked in the midst of a diplomatic effort. The United States betrayed negotiation and diplomacy, gave Israel the green light, and struck our facilities. They only understand the language of force and have no respect for international law. There is not a single red line that the U.S. has not crossed. It was not only our nuclear facilities that were attacked, but the very principle of international legal order. We don’t know how much opportunity for diplomacy remains."
Araghchi, responding to recent threats by U.S. President Donald Trump, stated: "The international community must respond to these threats. We held negotiations with the P5+1 and reached an agreement, but the United States turned away from it. The global community must condemn such actions to preserve international peace and security. We will steadfastly defend our sovereignty and our nation. The Iranian people stand united, firmly alongside their government and leadership."
He further added: "Iran has been attacked by a nuclear power—one that possesses nuclear weapons. Iran, by contrast, has consistently adhered to its obligations under non-proliferation treaties and does not possess nuclear arms."
Araghchi, addressing the issue of Turkey’s potential mediation efforts, stated: "Some countries have raised the prospect of acting as mediators, and we will continue these talks to prevent further U.S. aggression. Last night's attack was not just an assault on the Iranian people—it was an assault on international law and the United Nations. It constituted an attack on global peace and security. These destructive actions underscore that Israel has failed to achieve its objectives in Iran and is now facing a crisis in the face of Iran’s defense. The United States is simply seeking to assist Israel. The Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran are fully prepared and we are ready to mount a comprehensive defense, because Iran’s national dignity has been violated."
Iranian FM concluded: "We have a wide range of options available to us, and we have never trusted Western countries—and that mistrust has now deepened. Although the path of diplomacy remains open, at this moment we do not know when or how we will respond to this action. For now, a response must be considered."
Mahboubeh Habibi
