Iran’s Araghchi says open to diplomacy, but US must quit ‘threatening rhetoric’

• Iran says it is open to diplomacy with the US if Washington changes its “threatening rhetoric” and “expansionist approach”.
• Tehran warns its armed forces are fully prepared to respond to any threat or aggression.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said Tehran remains open to diplomatic engagement with the United States, but only if Washington changes what he described as its “expansionist approach” and “threatening rhetoric”.

The remarks come amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing disputes between Tehran and Washington over security, sanctions, and military activity in the Middle East.

In comments shared via his official Telegram account, Araghchi said Iran is prepared to pursue diplomacy if the US alters its current posture.

Read more: “No more Mr. Nice Guy”: Trump says Iran must be “smart” about nuclear deal

“Iran is ready to pursue diplomacy if the American side changes its expansionist approach, threatening rhetoric, and provocative actions,” he said.

The statement was reportedly conveyed during recent calls with foreign ministers from Turkiye, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iraq, and Azerbaijan, reflecting Tehran’s parallel diplomatic outreach across the region.

Alongside its diplomatic message, Iran stressed its military preparedness.

The statement said Iran’s armed forces are “fully alert and prepared to defend the country decisively and comprehensively against any threat or aggression.”

The dual messaging underscores Tehran’s position of maintaining openness to negotiations while signalling readiness for escalation if it perceives increased pressure.

The exchange reflects persistent mistrust between Tehran and Washington, with both sides repeatedly accusing each other of destabilising behaviour.

While diplomatic channels remain formally open, progress has been limited, and rhetoric on both sides has intensified during periods of regional friction.