Why it matters:
Araghchi’s remarks describe the Gaza war as a test of international law while simultaneously signaling limited flexibility, but clear boundaries, in nuclear diplomacy. His comments suggest Tehran is open to a confidence-building process with the U.S., yet unwilling to compromise on uranium enrichment or missile capabilities.
The big picture:
Araghchi argued that Israel’s actions are destabilizing West Asia and could trigger broader consequences beyond Gaza, while calling on the international community to impose accountability and advance Palestinian statehood.
What he’s saying:
“The Palestinian issue is not like other issues; it is a compass for measuring the effectiveness of international law.”
“What we see in Gaza is neither a war nor a conflict between equal parties, but the deliberate destruction of civilian life and genocide.”
“What is happening to Palestinians represents a moral failure for everyone who watches and accepts these violations.”
“The immunity granted to Israel has harmed the international judicial system.”
“Israel’s actions have destabilized the entire region.”
“If the Gaza issue is decided through expulsion, occupation, and destruction, the West Bank will be next.”
“Israel’s regional expansion requires weakening other states and giving it freedom to use force.”
“What is happening is not defense, it is an attempt to make Israel feel dominant over others.”
“There must be accountability for violations and sanctions imposed on Israel.”
“The international community must end the occupation and work toward establishing a Palestinian state.”
“The Arab and Islamic worlds must prevent the region from being reshaped by force.”
Key points from Araghchi's interview:
- Negotiations with Washington were “a good start,” but “we still have a long road to build trust.”
- Talks were indirect and focused solely on the nuclear file.
- “Zero enrichment is outside the framework of negotiations.”
- “Enrichment is our guaranteed right and must continue, even bombing could not destroy our capabilities.”
- Iran is ready to reach a “reassuring agreement” on enrichment.
- Missile capabilities are not negotiable “now or in the future” because they are defensive.
- The negotiation track must be free of threats and pressure, and Tehran hopes to see that in the U.S. approach.
- Trust is necessary for “realistic negotiations” leading to a fair, mutually beneficial outcome.
- Washington returned to talks after previously striking Iran through military attacks.
- Iran’s nuclear file “will only be resolved through negotiations.”
- The level of enrichment depends on Iran’s needs, and enriched uranium will not leave the country. We are ready to reduce the level of enrichment.
- No date has been set for a second round of talks, but both sides believe it should happen soon.
- “The possibility of war always exists, and we are prepared for it, while working to prevent it.”
- Iran would not attack U.S. territory if attacked, but would target American bases in the region.
- “We do not attack neighboring countries, we target U.S. bases there, and there is a big difference.”
Go deeper:
Fair Resolution of Palestine Is the Cornerstone of a Global Security: Iran FM
Hossein Amiri - Hossein Amiri
