Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has strongly condemned the recent US airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities in Isfahan, Natanz, and Fordow, branding them a “brutal act of aggression.” He warned that Tehran will respond in accordance with its right to self-defense under international law.
“Unprecedented Violation” of International Law Alleged
Speaking at a press conference in Istanbul, where he is attending an Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) meeting, Araghchi described the strikes as an “unprecedented violation of the United Nations Charter and international law.” He asserted that “The United States, in collusion with the genocidal Israeli regime, has launched a military attack on the territorial integrity of a sovereign UN member state.” Araghchi deemed this “a grave and unforgivable violation of international law.”
Diplomacy’s Door “Shut for Now”
Araghchi ruled out any immediate return to diplomatic negotiations. He highlighted that Iran had been actively engaged in talks with both the United States and European powers at the moment the strikes were launched. “We were in the middle of diplomacy—negotiations with the Europeans were ongoing in Geneva just two days ago,” he stated. “It is not Iran that walked away from talks. It was the United States that destroyed the diplomatic process. This aggression has shut the door, at least for now.”
US to Be Held Accountable, Says Iran
Calling the US administration “warmongering and lawless,” Araghchi declared that it would be “solely and fully responsible for the dangerous consequences” of its actions. He emphasized that “The attack shows how far the US is willing to go to sabotage peace and security in the region,” and reiterated, “Iran has done nothing wrong. Our nuclear programme remains peaceful and in line with international agreements.”
Global Appeal and Planned Meeting with Putin
Araghchi urged the international community to take a firm stand against Washington’s actions, warning that failure to do so would undermine the foundations of international law. He also criticized the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for its “silence” following the strikes, suggesting its indifference undermined its credibility.
In a significant diplomatic move, Araghchi announced his plan to travel to Moscow for consultations with President Vladimir Putin, underscoring the strategic partnership between Iran and Russia. Concluding the press conference, Araghchi stated that Iran would not tolerate repeated violations of its sovereignty. He affirmed, “The Iranian people are united and firm in their resistance to aggression. We will respond—not with words, but with a firm, measured reaction grounded in international law and our national interest.”
