WANA (May 14) – Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has strongly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent statements in Saudi Arabia, calling them “deceptive” and an attempt to distort the real source of instability in the region. He also announced that a new round of Iran–EU talks at the deputy foreign minister level will be held in Istanbul on Friday, May 15.

 

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting, Araghchi said: “I listened to the U.S. president’s remarks last night. Unfortunately, what was presented was a misleading narrative,” he stated.

 

Araghchi responded to Trump’s claim that regional countries seek prosperity and progress by saying: “That is precisely the path the Iranian people chose with their revolution — the path toward an independent, democratic, free, prosperous, and advanced nation.”

 

He went on to emphasize that it is the United States — through decades of sanctions, pressure, and threats — that has obstructed Iran’s development.

 

“The root cause of Iran’s economic problems is the U.S. and its domineering policies. Washington seeks a submissive regime in Tehran, which contradicts the dignity of the Iranian people,” Araghchi said.

 

Criticism of U.S. Policy and Israel’s Actions

The foreign minister also denounced Trump’s reaffirmation of the “maximum pressure” policy during his Saudi speech and accused him of turning a blind eye to Israel’s actions in the region.

 

“President Trump overlooks all the crimes committed by Israel and instead tries to portray Iran as the main threat. This is sheer deception and a reversal of reality. Which regime killed 60,000 people in Gaza? Who caused this level of destruction? Which regime continues to attack Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen?” he asked.

 

Araghchi further noted that Israel’s occupation in parts of Syria in recent months exceeds the entire area of Gaza, adding: “They have economically besieged an entire population in Gaza. All of this is ignored while attempts are made to paint Iran as the threat. But they will not succeed in this narrative.”

 

Push for Regional Understanding on Iran-U.S. Talks

Commenting on his recent visits to Saudi Arabia and Qatar, Araghchi said Iran is working to keep regional and international partners informed about the status of indirect negotiations with the United States.

 

“We are sharing updates with regional countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, as well as with European partners. Our goal is to build a regional understanding regarding the current phase of negotiations and any potential agreement, so that regional stability and security can be enhanced without foreign interference,” he explained.

 

He added that Iran hopes there will be no concerns among its neighbors and emphasized the importance of regional dialogue.

 

Putin’s Visit and Upcoming Talks with Europe

In response to media speculation about a potential visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin to Iran, Araghchi said such a visit is on the long-term agenda of both countries: “We are in consultations with the Russian side to schedule this visit,” he confirmed.

 

Araghchi also addressed the status of Iran’s talks with European countries, saying Tehran remains open to continuing dialogue even while indirect negotiations with Washington proceed.

 

“Unfortunately, Europe has isolated itself somewhat through its own policies, but we are not seeking such a scenario. We are continuing our diplomatic engagement,” he noted.

 

He announced that a new round of Iran–EU talks at the deputy foreign minister level will be held in Istanbul on Friday, May 15, marking a fresh phase in efforts to bridge differences.