Tehran: Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi strongly condemned the recent U.S. strike on Iran's nuclear facilities, calling it a blatant violation of international law and a dangerous escalation that crosses a red line.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, Araghchi said, "There is no precedent for such a breach of international laws and the United Nations Charter." He warned that the war-driven government in Washington would be held accountable for the consequences of its aggression.
Responding to a question about whether Iran would retaliate by targeting U.S. military bases in the region or closing the Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi stated, “Let me just say, we have multiple options available.”
He added that Iran had never trusted Western powers, even during diplomatic talks. “Now we have even more reasons not to trust them at all.”
Araghchi emphasized that while diplomacy should always remain on the table, the current circumstances do not allow Iran to make any immediate decisions about how or with whom to pursue diplomatic avenues. “For now, we ask the world to wait for our response.”
The Iranian diplomat also criticized the attack on nuclear installations as a direct challenge to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). “Iran is a signatory to the NPT, but this agreement has failed to provide us the protection it promises. If peaceful nuclear programs are not safeguarded, then why should Iran or any other country even sign the NPT?”
He further accused U.S. President Donald Trump of deceiving both the Iranian and American people. “Trump was elected on the promise to end costly wars in our region. Instead, he has misused diplomatic efforts with Iran and betrayed his own voters,” Araghchi said.
Araghchi also revealed he would be traveling to Moscow today for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin scheduled for tomorrow. He described Russia as a “strategic partner” and emphasized that the two countries have consistently consulted each other on regional issues.
“Russia and China are making efforts to de-escalate the situation by pushing for a resolution at the UN Security Council,” he said. “However, given the evolving situation, we will now consult on the next steps.”
