Iran ready for diplomacy, but not under pressure: Foreign Minister Araghchi

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Iran has always been ready for talks based on mutual respect, but the Islamic Republic will not negotiate under pressure and intimidation.

Araghchi made the remarks on Monday as he and his colleagues at Foreign Ministry renewed their allegiance to the ideals of Imam Khomeini, the late founder of the Islamic Republic, at his mausoleum in southern Tehran.

He said the enemies now talk of diplomacy after the failure of both their anti-Iran plots over the past year, including the illegal US-Israeli aggression, and terrorist riots.

“Iran has always been ready for diplomacy from an equal footing, with mutual respect, and in pursuit of the interests of the Iranian nation.”

“Anyone who speaks to the Iranian nation with respect will be met with respect, while anyone who resorts to threats and force will be met likewise, ” he said.

“Diplomacy is incompatible with pressure, threats, and intimidation, and the Islamic Republic of Iran proceeds along this path with resolve and strength,” the foreign minister stated.

Araghchi also noted that Iran has always pursued diplomacy alongside resistance. The Foreign Ministry, he said, stands “in the same position” with the Iranian Armed Forces as they are all striving to secure the rights of the people, defend national interests, and preserve the national security.

Meanwhile, the foreign minister referred to the unprovoked US-Israeli aggression against Iran that killed at least 1,064 people between June 13 and 27, 2025.

He said the enemies waged the war at a time when Tehran was holding indirect talks with Washington over the nuclear issue, with Donald Trump, the president of the United States, explicitly calling for Iran’s “unconditional surrender.”

However, Araghchi said, the Iranian nation opted for resistance and conducted retaliatory strikes, leading the enemies to demand an unconditional ceasefire.

Referring to the recent foreign-linked riots, the top Iranian diplomat said the unrest had nothing to do with civil protests that are recognized under the Constitution.

During the riots, which were a continuation of the 12-day war, armed terrorists entered the field to carry on the enemies’ failed plot against Iran, Araghchi said.

In late December, Iran saw sporadic economic protests that were quickly hijacked by armed mercenaries incited by US and Israeli leaders and aided by their spy operatives on the ground.

Iran’s Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs said a total of 3,117 people lost their lives during the unrest, adding that 2,427 of those killed were innocent civilians and security personnel.

Over the course of the riots and following the events, Trump repeatedly threatened military action against Iran and built up American forces in the region.