WANA (Nov 28) – Speaking to the media during his visit to Portugal, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the upcoming meeting between Iranian and European negotiators in Geneva as a brainstorming session to explore possible ways out of the current impasse.

 

“I am not optimistic about this meeting because I’m not sure we are talking to the right partners. It seems that the European countries, especially Britain, Germany, and France, have chosen a confrontational approach,” Araghchi said.

 

He further warned that if the West continues to threaten the reimposition of all United Nations sanctions under the snapback mechanism, the nuclear debate within Iran could shift dramatically. “If this path persists, the conversation in Iran might lean toward pursuing nuclear weapons. Iran has had the capability and knowledge to develop nuclear arms before, but it has not been part of our security strategy,” he added.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi meeting with reporters during his visit to Portugal, on November 28, 2024. Social media/ WANA News Agency

Pressure Mounts on Nuclear Policy

Araghchi highlighted growing internal debates in Iran questioning the wisdom of its engagement with the West over its nuclear program. “We complied with all their demands, yet when it came to lifting sanctions, nothing tangible happened. If the Europeans reimpose sanctions at the UN Security Council, the entire nation will conclude that our cooperation was a mistake,” he said.

 

Regarding the snapback mechanism, he issued a stark warning: “If snapback happens, I believe everyone will agree that we’ve been on the wrong path and must change course. This would undoubtedly lead to a crisis.”

 

Araghchi also revealed that Iran has already begun operating thousands of new, advanced centrifuges in response to recent pressures. “Gas has been injected into these machines. This is a direct result of their policies,” he remarked.

 

However, he emphasized that Iran remains committed to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and is open to cooperation. “We have no intention of enriching uranium beyond 60% at this time. Let me reiterate: our focus is on resolving this issue honorably,” he said.

 

Missile Sales and Regional Proxy Allegations

Araghchi rejected claims that Iran supplied ballistic missiles to Russia, calling such accusations baseless. “Our military cooperation with Russia is long-standing and entirely legitimate. At the same time, we continue to support Ukraine’s territorial integrity,” he said.

 

Responding to accusations of regional proxy activities, Araghchi clarified Iran’s relationship with groups like Hezbollah: “Hezbollah and others are not our proxies. They are independent entities that make and implement their own decisions. We only support them as friends.”

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi meeting with reporters during his visit to Portugal, on November 28, 2024. Social media/ WANA News Agency

Israel’s Struggles in Lebanon and Gaza

Araghchi pointed to Israel’s readiness for a ceasefire in Lebanon as a sign of its failure. “They couldn’t finish the job. Yes, Hezbollah has been affected, but the core of its combat organization remains intact. The leadership may have been targeted, but the fighting structure is untouched,” he explained.

 

He also addressed the ongoing situation in Gaza, calling it a complete failure for Israel: “They went into Gaza to destroy Hamas, and now they’re forced to negotiate with them. This proves they’ve failed to achieve their objectives. The ceasefire in Gaza has become a very complicated issue,” he said.

 

Araghchi concluded by reiterating Iran’s commitment to seeking a peaceful resolution while standing firm against external pressures. “We remain determined to protect our sovereignty and the dignity of our nation,” he asserted.