Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated after talks with European Union representatives in Geneva that Iran is “ready to reconsider diplomacy when the aggression stops and the aggressor is held accountable for the heinous crimes committed.”
Speaking at a press conference, Araghchi reiterated that Iran’s nuclear program is for peaceful purposes and that attacks against it constitute a violation of international law. He added that Iran will continue to “exercise its legitimate right to self-defense.”
“I make it clear that Iran’s defensive capabilities are non-negotiable,” Araghchi emphasized, according to the BBC.
EU Calls for Continued Dialogue Amidst Escalation Fears
European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas stated that regional escalation benefits no one, stressing the necessity of keeping “channels for discussion open.” She added that an agreement was reached with the Iranian Foreign Minister to continue talks on “nuclear and other issues.”
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy confirmed that Araghchi was “clearly told that Iran cannot have nuclear weapons.” He urged Iran to “continue talks with the U.S., because this is a dangerous moment and it is extremely important that we do not see a regional escalation of the conflict between Iran and Israel.”
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot highlighted that during the meeting, it was agreed that “no one believes there is a final military solution to the Iranian nuclear problem.” Barrot added that the Iranian Foreign Minister “expressed readiness to continue talks on the nuclear program and other important issues,” and that “the European Union expects Iran to be open to discussions, including with the United States, to achieve a solution through dialogue.”
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said that the “common goal is to avoid further escalation in the Middle East and to make progress in negotiations.”
