Iran ‘does not desire a war but we are ready for it,’ says Araghchi

• Iran says it does not seek war with 'Israel' or the U.S. but is ready to retaliate if attacked.
• Tehran is open to nuclear negotiations with Washington, insisting talks be based on mutual respect, not dictation.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Thursday that Tehran does not want war with 'Israel' or the United States but is prepared to retaliate if attacked again.

Speaking during a visit to Beirut, Araghchi emphasized that Iran is also open to negotiations with Washington over its nuclear program, provided talks are based on mutual respect rather than what he called “dictation” by the U.S.

Warning to 'Israel' and the U.S.

Araghchi’s remarks come amid fears that 'Israel', a close U.S. ally, could target Iran following a June conflict in which 'Israel' killed senior Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists, and the U.S. struck Iranian nuclear enrichment sites.

“America and Israel have tested their attack on Iran, and this strategy faced extreme failure,” Araghchi said. “If they repeat it, they will face the same results. We are ready for any choice. We don’t desire a war, but we are ready for it.”

Nuclear Talks on Tehran’s Terms

The foreign minister also reiterated Iran’s willingness to engage in nuclear negotiations. “The negotiations should be based on mutual respect and mutual interests,” he said. “Once the Americans accept constructive and positive talks rather than ordering dictation, the results of these negotiations become fruitful.”

Since the U.S. withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018, Iran has enriched uranium up to 60% purity, a short technical step from weapons-grade levels. While Tehran insists its nuclear program is peaceful, Western nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have long maintained that Iran had a weapons program until 2003.

U.S. Maximum Pressure Campaign

In February, President Donald Trump reimposed a “maximum pressure” campaign on Iran, including strikes on three critical enrichment facilities in June, aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Trump warned in December that further military action could follow if Iran attempted to reconstitute its nuclear program.

Iran-Lebanon Relations

Araghchi’s visit to Beirut coincides with talks with Lebanese officials on regional affairs and economic partnerships. The foreign minister highlighted Iran’s desire for comprehensive ties with Lebanon, including stronger economic cooperation. His visit also came shortly after Lebanon’s military concluded a first phase of a plan to disarm factions, including Hezbollah.