Escalating tensions in the Middle East have led Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to declare his country prepared to continue attacks “as long as necessary.” The statement came Tuesday, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertion that the conflict would end “very soon.” Araghchi also dismissed the possibility of renewed negotiations with Washington, and accused both the U.S. And Israel of attacking civilian infrastructure within Iran.
Iran’s Position
“We are prepared to continue attacks with missiles against them as long as necessary and whenever necessary,” Araghchi stated in an interview with PBS News. He added that talks with the United States to end the conflict are “no longer on the agenda.”
Araghchi explained that Iran has had a “very bitter experience” in past diplomatic contacts with the U.S. He recalled negotiations in 2026 where Washington indicated a desire to resolve Iran’s nuclear program peacefully. “They wanted to resolve the issue of Iran’s nuclear [program] peacefully and identify a negotiated solution, and finally we accepted,” he said.
But, those conversations ultimately ended with a military offensive. “After three rounds of negotiation and after the American team claimed that we had made great progress, they still decided to attack us,” Araqchi lamented. “So I don’t think talking to the Americans will be on our agenda again.”
Impact on Global Energy Markets
The Foreign Minister also addressed attacks on Iranian infrastructure, warning of their potential impact on the global energy market. He described military operations against oil-related facilities as “a very dangerous maneuver” that is causing “the increase of oil prices around the world.”
Araghchi insisted the rising cost of crude oil is not a result of decisions made in Tehran. “This is not our fault, this is not our plan,” he stated, adding that oil production and transport have “slowed down or stopped due to the attacks and aggression of Israelis and Americans.”
Threats of Retaliation
Araghchi defended Iran’s retaliatory strikes, characterizing them as an act of “legitimate defense, which is legal and legitimate.” He described the situation as “an imposed war” and “an act of aggression…absolutely illegal.” He also stated that Iran has warned regional countries of the consequences of a U.S. Attack, threatening to target U.S. Bases and assets in the region if necessary. He warned that such actions “could extend the war to the entire region.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Iran’s current stance on negotiations with the U.S.?
According to Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, negotiations with the U.S. Are “no longer on the agenda” due to a past experience where Iran was attacked during previous talks.
What does Iran say about the rising price of oil?
Araghchi stated that the increase in oil prices is not the result of decisions made by Iran, but rather a consequence of attacks on oil infrastructure by the U.S. And Israel.
What is Iran threatening to do if attacked by the U.S.?
Araghchi stated that if the U.S. Attacks Iran, Iran will target U.S. Bases, facilities, and assets in the region, potentially escalating the conflict.
Given the current rhetoric and escalating actions, what steps might be taken to de-escalate tensions in the region?
