Iran’s Nuclear Program a Source of National Pride, Says Foreign Minister Araqchi
Tehran, The Gulf Observer: In an exclusive interview with CBS News, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi emphasized that Iran’s peaceful nuclear program has become a symbol of “national pride and glory,” while reaffirming the Islamic Republic’s unwavering commitment to its legitimate right to uranium enrichment.
Highlighting the resilience of the Iranian people, Araqchi stated, “We have gone through 12 days of imposed war; therefore, people will not easily back down from enrichment.” He condemned ongoing attempts by the United States and Israel to dismantle Iran’s nuclear capabilities, asserting, “One cannot obliterate the technology and science for enrichment through bombings.” He further declared that any damage inflicted upon the program could be swiftly reversed: “If there is this will on our part, and the will exists to once again make progress in this industry, we will be able to expeditiously repair the damages and make up for the lost time.”
Addressing the possibility of resuming indirect negotiations with the United States over sanctions relief and nuclear enrichment, the Iranian foreign minister indicated that diplomacy remains an option: “The doors of diplomacy will never slam shut.” However, he tempered expectations, noting, “I don’t think negotiations will restart as quickly as that.”
Araqchi made clear that any future dialogue would depend on concrete assurances from Washington. “In order for us to decide to reengage, we will have to first ensure that America will not revert back to targeting us in a military attack during the negotiations,” he said, emphasizing Iran’s need for trust-building measures.
On the issue of regional security, Araqchi issued a firm warning in response to Israel’s recent aggression: “We showed during this 12-day imposed war that we have the ability to defend ourselves, and we will continue to do so should any aggression be launched against us.”
According to official sources, the 12-day military conflict began on June 13 when the Israeli regime launched airstrikes targeting Iran’s infrastructure, including nuclear facilities. The strikes resulted in the deaths of hundreds of scientists, military personnel, and civilians. On June 22, the United States joined the conflict by attacking key nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
Foreign Minister Araqchi’s remarks underscore both Iran’s determination to safeguard its sovereign rights and its continued openness to dialogue—provided that international actors respect its security and national dignity.
