Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed Tehran's unwavering stance on its defense capabilities during a Saturday interview with Qatar's Al Jazeera, stating that the country's missile program remains "never negotiable" in discussions with the United States.
The remarks come after indirect nuclear negotiations between Iranian and U.S. delegations concluded on February 5, 2026, in what Araghchi described as a positive initial step. However, he emphasized that significant trust-building measures remain necessary for sustained progress.
"Missile development constitutes a fundamental defense priority," Araghchi stated, directly addressing recent U.S. calls for program limitations. "We anticipate this reality being acknowledged in Washington's policy approach."
The foreign minister referenced heightened regional tensions following last June's attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, which Tehran attributes to U.S. and Israeli operations. Despite these challenges, Araghchi maintained Iran's commitment to peaceful nuclear development under international oversight.
Analysts suggest the current diplomatic window remains fragile, particularly given recent U.S. military deployments across West Asia. While ruling out direct attacks on U.S. territory, Araghchi cautioned that American bases in the region could face retaliation if provoked.
This latest exchange underscores the complex security dynamics shaping 2026's geopolitical landscape, with global energy markets and regional stability hanging in the balance.
