Iran stands firm on nuclear rights, foreign minister says

In a recent statement, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi made it clear that Tehran would not back down on its nuclear rights if the United States’ aim is to strip them away. The warning came during his visit to Doha, where he emphasized Iran’s staunch stance on protecting its nuclear program.

Araqchi’s words come at a time when the United States is pushing for a more stringent nuclear deal with Iran, after President Donald Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear agreement last year. The US has placed renewed pressure on Iran, introducing additional sanctions and calling for more restrictions on the country’s nuclear activities.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Qatari Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed Al-Thani, Araqchi reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to its nuclear rights and warned against any attempts to undermine them. He also accused the US of engaging in “economic terrorism” against Iran through its economic sanctions.

Iran’s nuclear rights are enshrined in the 2015 nuclear agreement, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The deal, signed between Iran, the United States, China, Russia, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, aimed to limit Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.

Since Trump’s withdrawal from the deal, the other signatories have struggled to salvage the agreement. In response to the US sanctions, Iran has gradually increased its nuclear activities, including enriching uranium beyond the JCPOA’s limits.

Araqchi stressed that Iran has not violated the JCPOA and that its recent actions were in accordance with the agreement. He also accused the US of being responsible for the current situation, stating that their withdrawal from the deal has disrupted the balance and put pressure on Iran.

The Iranian Foreign Minister reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to dialogue and negotiations, stating that Tehran is open to talks with the US if they return to the JCPOA and lift the sanctions. He also expressed gratitude to Qatar for its efforts in mediating between Iran and the US, stating that Iran values its relations with its regional neighbors.

The Qatari Deputy Prime Minister echoed Araqchi’s sentiments and called for a diplomatic solution to de-escalate tensions in the region. He also stressed the importance of adhering to international agreements and avoiding unilateral actions that could further destabilize the region.

Iran’s warning to the US comes amid rising tensions between the two countries, particularly after the recent US airstrike that killed top Iranian General Qassem Soleimani. The move was met with condemnation from Iran and sparked fears of an all-out war between the two nations.

Araqchi’s words serve as a reminder of the importance of respecting international agreements and the need for all parties to uphold their end of the deal. In the face of US pressure and sanctions, Iran remains steadfast in its commitment to its nuclear rights and calls for a peaceful resolution through negotiations.

The Iranian Foreign Minister’s message also serves as a call to the US to reconsider its approach towards Iran and to engage in meaningful dialogue rather than resorting to unilateral actions. The current situation has heightened tensions in the region, and it is essential for all parties to prioritize diplomacy and open communication.

In conclusion, Iran’s warning is a clear message to the United States that Tehran will not tolerate any attempts to strip away its nuclear rights. Araqchi’s strong stance reflects the resolve of the Iranian government to protect its interests and uphold its commitments under the JCPOA. It is now up to the US to heed this warning and work towards finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis.