Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi signals readiness for diplomacy and defense against US aggression

NEW YORK, September 27. /TASS/. Iran is prepared to continue diplomatic efforts but intends to stand against any further US aggression even if the conflict escalates into a "doomsday war," Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in an interview with NBC News.

"We are fully prepared for the war to be resumed. We stand firm in the face of any new aggression, even if it comes to a doomsday war," Araghchi said, adding, "At the same time, we stand ready for diplomacy. It is up to President Trump to choose."

The minister stressed that Iran’s enrichment of uranium to 60% is conducted exclusively for peaceful purposes and is fully consistent with Tehran’s obligations under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). "Enriching [uranium] up to 60% in not illegal. It is still withing the framework of the NPT and our peaceful program," he said.

At the same time, Araghchi noted that Iran could discuss a deal with the United States on its uranium enriched to 60%, but trust between the sides must first be strengthened before negotiations on the issue can take place.

"We offered a deal on our 60% [enriched nuclear] material in 2025 and 2026, and it is still something that could be considered if they prove their goodwill and their real determination for peace. We decided to put all nuclear issues to later stages and go for confidence building at this stage," he said.

Araghchi noted that Tehran’s proposed seven-day plan was specifically aimed at building trust with Washington.

The minister also talked about US claims that there are multiple centers of power in Iran and called them false, as decisions in the country are made on the basis of national consensus. "It is false to think that there are different sources of power inside Iran. We move based on national consensus," Araghchi said. According to him, Iran’s supreme leader is fine, and the country’s leadership continues to receive his comments, instructions, and views.

"We are all one front facing all challenges imposed on us by the United States, whether sanctions or military operations," he stressed.