Cairo – IranView24 – ـJune 2
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, in a joint press conference with his Egyptian counterpart in Cairo, emphasized that Iran will not abandon uranium enrichment, asserting that it is “a legitimate right under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)” and Tehran will not relinquish it.
“Our nuclear program is fully peaceful,” Araghchi stated. “We have nothing to hide. The Iranian people have paid a heavy price for this achievement, including the loss of lives. This right is non-negotiable.”
He also spoke on regional issues, noting that Yemenis demand a ceasefire in Gaza, and reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to calm and stability in the region, hoping all issues would be resolved through dialogue.
On the ongoing nuclear talks, he remarked:
“If the purpose is to build trust and verify our peaceful intent, an agreement is possible. But if the goal is to deprive us of our peaceful activities, there will be no deal. We will never leave the negotiation table, and we will defend our people’s rights.”
He reiterated Iran’s position against nuclear weapons, referencing the Supreme Leader’s fatwa prohibiting nuclear arms, and highlighting Iran’s role, alongside Egypt, as a founding supporter of a nuclear-free Middle East.
Araghchi condemned the double standards of the West, saying:
“The Zionist entity, which is accused of genocide and possesses nuclear weapons, threatens regional security—yet Western powers ignore it while pressuring Iran.”
Regarding his meeting with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, he emphasized the importance of the agency’s independence from political agendas and expressed hope that it “won’t fall into the trap” of Western pressure.
On Iran-Egypt relations, Araghchi said Tehran is eager to improve ties with Cairo. Although ambassadors have not yet been exchanged, he said:
“We’re building common ground, and when conditions are right, we are ready.”
Addressing the recent US message to Iran, he stated:
“We will respond soon. Our answer will reflect the principles and interests of the Iranian people. No deal will be signed unless it acknowledges our right to enrichment.”
On the threat of the snapback mechanism, Araghchi concluded:
“We are confident that through diplomacy, we can avoid escalation and reach a better solution. Sanctions must end. Diplomacy is the only way forward.”
