Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has reaffirmed Tehran's commitment to its uranium enrichment program, calling it a matter of "national pride" following significant damage to nuclear facilities during recent clashes with Israel and the U.S. The remarks come as tensions in the Middle East remain high despite a late June ceasefire.
Nuclear Program: A Symbol of Sovereignty
Araghchi told Fox News that while enrichment activities are temporarily halted due to "serious and severe" infrastructure damage from June strikes, Iran cannot abandon its nuclear achievements. "It is an achievement of our own scientists," he emphasized, underscoring the program's political significance.
Conflict Fallout and Diplomatic Pathways
The June 22 U.S. strikes targeted key sites including Fordow and Natanz facilities, compounding damage from earlier Israeli operations. Prior mediation efforts by Oman had yielded five rounds of nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington, but disagreements over enrichment limits and the cancellation of a June 15 meeting stalled progress.
While Araghchi confirmed Iran's openness to renewed negotiations, he ruled out direct talks with the U.S. "for the time being." The minister also dismissed concerns about Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's health, stating he remains in "good condition."
International Perspectives
Israel and the U.S. claim Iran neared weapons-grade enrichment levels
Tehran maintains its program is strictly civilian
UN nuclear watchdog reports "no credible indication" of active weapons development
As reconstruction efforts begin, analysts warn the situation highlights fragile regional stability and the challenges of balancing nonproliferation goals with national sovereignty claims.
