Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the Pakistan-mediated negotiations with the United States are not yet failed, but the process is going through a difficult phase.
Speaking at a press conference in New Delhi, Araghchi said that Iran did not initiate the war but only acted in self-defense, and Tehran is trying to maintain the ceasefire.
He noted that the biggest obstacle in the talks is the behavior of the United States and the lack of trust between the two countries. According to him, Iran has received conflicting messages from Washington, which raises concerns about the U.S.’s intentions; however, he remains hopeful that diplomacy and wisdom will prevail.
The Iranian Foreign Minister clarified that Iran does not intend to acquire nuclear weapons and that its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes. He reminded that Iran had already provided evidence regarding this in the 2015 nuclear agreement.
On the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi said that Iran is not responsible for existing obstacles there, though the presence of naval mines in some areas has complicated matters. He added that Iran is guiding vessels to safe passage and has assisted several Indian ships as well.
Regarding relations with Russia, he stated that Tehran and Moscow share a strategic partnership and maintain continuous communication on regional and global issues. He welcomed Russia’s proposal to transfer enriched uranium but clarified that this proposal is not being considered at present.
Araghchi further said that Iran appreciates every country willing to assist in the negotiations, with Pakistan’s mediation being an important effort in this regard.
