WANA (May 11) – Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has stated that a renewed agreement between Iran and the United States is within reach, provided that Iran’s nuclear rights are respected.

 

Speaking ahead of the fourth round of Iran-Arab dialogue in Doha, he warned that Tehran will not yield to “unrealistic and irrational” demands aimed at curtailing its peaceful nuclear program.

 

“An agreement is entirely within reach,” Araghchi said. “But if the objective is to strip Iran of its nuclear rights or impose illogical conditions, let me be clear: the Islamic Republic of Iran will not retreat from the rights of the proud Iranian nation.”

 

Strengthening Regional Cooperation

Araghchi arrived in Doha Saturday evening to attend bilateral talks with his Qatari counterpart and participate in the “Iran-Arab Dialogue” conference under the theme “Strong Relations, Common Interests.”

 

Addressing the forum, he emphasized the need for unity in the region, highlighting the Islamic world’s shared heritage and collective responsibility in the face of escalating challenges.

 

“We have gathered today to deepen our cooperation and mutual understanding. The Islamic civilization has historically yielded invaluable achievements for the world. Now more than ever, our region needs solidarity and mutual cooperation,” he remarked.

 

He reiterated Iran’s firm belief in dialogue, both domestically and internationally, noting that recent regional developments have created new opportunities for shared understanding and closer coordination.

 

Araghchi cited last year’s informal meeting between Iran and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states as a significant step toward building stronger ties across the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, stressing the importance of recognizing shared interests over divisions, many of which he described as “fabricated and externally imposed.”

 

Israel Seen as Primary Source of Instability

Turning to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Araghchi denounced the Israeli government as the “main source of regional instability and threat to peace,” accusing the United States of complicity through its unwavering support for Tel Aviv.

 

“It is impossible to talk about the goals of the Islamic world while turning a blind eye to the oppression of the Palestinian people. Israel’s existence is the greatest threat to peace in the region, and the United States, by supporting it, becomes a partner in its crimes,” he asserted.

 

He condemned Israel’s rejection of the two-state solution and its ongoing actions in Gaza, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen, which he described as acts of colonial aggression and genocide.

 

“The Zionist regime is attempting to erase the Palestinian nation through the most horrific methods of genocide and forced displacement. Stopping this project is our legal, moral, religious, and strategic obligation.”

 

A Shift Toward a “Strong Region” Paradigm

Araghchi argued that regional prosperity depends on the shift from national power competition to regional cooperation.

 

“We believe that only through strengthening a regional discourse based on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and legitimate interests can we build a stable and secure future,” he said. “This shift requires sustained trust-building, participation, and collaboration in areas such as culture, tourism, and trade.”

 

He called for institutionalizing dialogue mechanisms and fostering intellectual exchanges to resolve the region’s challenges collectively.

 

Talks with the U.S. and Nuclear Commitments

Regarding the indirect talks with the United States, set to enter their fourth round tomorrow, Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to nuclear non-proliferation while insisting on its right to peaceful nuclear energy, including uranium enrichment.

 

“We consider nuclear weapons forbidden and have always honored our obligations under international non-proliferation regimes. But we insist on our right to peaceful nuclear technology,” he said.  He warned Western powers against double standards.

 

“It is unacceptable to express concern over Iran’s peaceful program while ignoring the nuclear arsenal of an occupying regime known for aggression and genocide,” he said, referring to Israel.

 

Araghchi concluded by expressing Iran’s willingness to continue constructive talks with the U.S., Europe, Russia, and China.

 

“If the goal is to ensure Iran does not pursue nuclear weapons — which it does not — then a deal is well within reach. But if the aim is to deprive Iran of its rights, we will never back down.”