Araghchi: No Talks Under Pressure
WANA (Feb 18) – Seyed Abbas Araghchi, The Iranian Foreign Minister emphasized that maximum pressure and resolutions have never been effective against Iran, stating: “But if Iran’s people are spoken to with dignity, our response will be in the same language. We will not negotiate under threat.”
Iran’s Foreign Minister, addressed reporters after a joint press conference with Ali Youssef Ahmed Al-Sharif, Sudan’s Foreign Minister, responding to several questions.
Iran supports a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine
In response to a question about proposed solutions for the Ukraine conflict, Araghchi stated: “If a peaceful resolution is found, Iran will support it. We support any solution that ends war and conflict and paves the way for a diplomatic resolution. This has always been our stance, and we have never supported military operations.”
No negotiation under force and pressure—a clear principle of Iran’s foreign policy
Addressing U.S. President’s contradictory behavior, Araghchi clarified: “Under no circumstances do we negotiate under pressure with anyone. This is a clear principle of our foreign policy, and I believe any other independent country would have the same stance. What matters is not beautiful words and appealing interviews, but what is signed. The presidential memorandum that has been signed clearly outlines the U.S. strategy of maximum pressure on the Islamic Republic of Iran. That is what holds significance, it is documented, signed, and logically serves as their operational guideline. We adjust our policies accordingly.”
If spoken to with dignity, Iran will respond in kind
Reiterating that maximum pressure has never worked against Iran, Araghchi stated: “We have never responded to threats and pressure, and resolutions against Iran have never been effective. The Iranian people stand firm in defending their dignity and honor. However, if Iran’s people are approached with respect and dignity, it is natural that the response will be in the same language. What we have seen so far, apart from a few pleasant words accompanied by threats of military action, is nothing but a clear and signed document that explicitly reveals their policy. We will align ourselves with that reality and will not negotiate under any form of maximum pressure or threats.”
“Maximum pressure has never worked on #Iran, we have never bowed down to the language of threats and pressure and (violent) resolutions against Iran have never worked ”
– Dr Araghchi, Iran’s FM #America pic.twitter.com/i6NUtigY0n— WANA News Agency (@WANAIran) February 17, 2025
Qatar Emir’s visit to Tehran is for bilateral discussions
Regarding the purpose of the Qatari Emir’s visit to Tehran, Araghchi clarified: “The Emir of Qatar is coming for bilateral discussions, and there has been no message conveyed to us indicating that he is carrying a message from any third party.”
The IAEA comprehensive report should not reopen resolved issues
Commenting on recent developments and statements by the IAEA Secretary-General, Araghchi noted: “There are several issues here: the resolution and the comprehensive report. We are in constant consultation with Mr. Grossi, and I had a phone conversation with him just a few days ago. In the previous Board of Governors meeting, he was asked to provide a comprehensive report on Iran’s nuclear program, which has its complexities. In our recent call, we emphasized that the report should not reopen previously resolved issues.”
Welcoming Grossi’s stance on not submitting the comprehensive report to the next IAEA meeting
Araghchi continued: “Our discussions with the IAEA are ongoing. Whether Grossi will submit the report to the next Board of Governors meeting depends on the agency’s decision. Apparently, he has stated that he does not intend to do so, and we welcome this stance. We hope the IAEA will always remain within its technical mandate and not be swayed by political pressures from certain countries.”
He emphasized that the IAEA is a technical institution, stating: “This agency should compile its reports without political interference, and we expect it to continue this approach without being influenced by political pressures from specific states.”
Extensive talks with Indian Foreign Minister on Chabahar
Responding to a question about his meeting with his Indian counterpart and discussions on sanctions waivers for investments, Araghchi said: “Regarding Chabahar, I had an extensive discussion with India’s Foreign Minister. Chabahar is not just a matter between Iran and India; it is a strategic gateway for Indian Ocean nations, facilitating access to Eurasia and then Europe through Iran’s railway network. The Iranian railway is significantly closer and more cost-effective than alternative routes, and India has long expressed its interest in this project. We have a 10-year agreement with India on Chabahar, and they have invested in this region. However, one of the points raised under the U.S. maximum pressure policy is precisely this issue. It remains to be seen what practical steps will be taken, but the document merely contains references to this matter.”
Iran will continue developing Chabahar and the Makran region under any circumstances
He added: “We are aware of the ongoing consultations between the Indian and U.S. governments. Ultimately, the decision rests with our Indian friends on how they intend to proceed with Iran on Chabahar. Chabahar is part of Iran’s maritime development strategy, and Iran will continue developing this port and the Makran region under any circumstances. Other interested countries are naturally welcome to seize this opportunity.”
Lebanese FM: Suspension of Iranian flights to Beirut is a technical and legal matter
Regarding the temporary suspension of Tehran-Beirut flights, Araghchi explained: “I had a very positive and constructive discussion with Lebanon’s Foreign Minister, and he assured me that this decision was not politically motivated but was based on technical and legal grounds. It was agreed that the two countries will engage in bilateral political negotiations to resolve this issue. Hopefully, diplomacy will prevail in this matter, and we will continue discussions with the Lebanese government to reach a positive outcome.”