Why it matters:
The op-ed comes amid explicit threats from President Trump, who warned that if Iran is “building up weapons again,” the U.S. would have “no choice but to very quickly eradicate that build-up.” These remarks signal a real risk of military escalation, making Iran’s public response in a major Western outlet particularly significant.
Written by Iran’s foreign minister, the piece carries institutional authority and aims to challenge assumptions behind the U.S. threat, promote diplomacy, and influence both policymakers and public opinion in the West before tensions escalate further.
The big picture:
Tensions between Iran and Israel have escalated sharply in recent years, culminating in a direct Israeli attack on Iranian territory in June 2025. Israel justified these operations by citing concerns over Iran’s nuclear program, targeting not only military facilities but also scientists and civilians. U.S. President Donald Trump has explicitly acknowledged American involvement, confirming that the United States played a role in supporting aspects of the attacks.
From Tehran’s perspective, these attacks reflect a long-standing Israeli strategy to portray Iran as a nuclear threat while undermining its regional influence and military capabilities. The op-ed situates these attacks within a broader narrative of Israeli aggression and the misuse of nuclear fears, emphasizing that Iran’s response has been shaped by the need to protect its people, territory, and strategic depth.
What he's saying:
Araghchi: "A rising number of Americans openly acknowledge that Israel is not an ally but a liability."
"We do not seek nuclear weapons. This is not a tactical claim but a strategic doctrine grounded in religious, ethical and security considerations."
"Those myths encouraged Washington to abandon a functional diplomatic framework in favour of 'maximum pressure' that only produced 'maximum resistance'."
"Iran remains open to an agreement that is built on mutual respect and mutual interest."
"If President Trump wants to win their trust... he should do what none of his predecessors have achieved: finally end an unnecessary crisis by pursuing peace through diplomacy."
"Iranians will never abandon their rights... those rights include access to all aspects of peaceful nuclear technology."
"Such a deal must feature tangible and verifiable sanctions lifting."
Go deeper:
Araghchi: "Iran conveys message of justice to the world"
'Extending hand of diplomacy' doesn’t mean sending bombers: FM
F.abedi - seyed mohammad kazemi
