Iran Signals Willingness to Resume Nuclear Talks—But Demands Security Assurances

Foreign Minister Araghchi says future negotiations must not lead to war; insists on uranium enrichment and tighter IAEA oversight

TEHRAN — Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced on Saturday that Iran remains open to resuming nuclear talks with the United States, but only if it receives firm guarantees that such negotiations will not be followed by military conflict or covert attacks.

Speaking at a meeting with foreign diplomats in Tehran, Araghchi reaffirmed that Iran “has always been, and will always be, ready for talks” concerning its nuclear program. However, he stressed that trust must be restored before any meaningful dialogue can resume. “It must be assured that if negotiations start again, they do not result in another war waged by the United States or other parties,” he said.

The comments follow recent violent escalations between Iran and Israel, including a deadly Israeli airstrike campaign on June 13 that targeted Iranian nuclear and military facilities. The strikes, according to Iranian officials, killed senior commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians. Iran responded with multiple missile and drone attacks on Israeli territory, leading to casualties and infrastructure damage. A ceasefire was declared on June 24, ending 12 days of intense fighting.

Referring to the fallout, Araghchi accused the U.S. of “betraying diplomacy” by backing Israel’s strikes and launching its own attacks on Iranian nuclear sites. “If the United States wishes to return to the negotiating table, it must ensure that the same scenario will not be repeated,” he warned.

Araghchi emphasized that any renewed talks should focus solely on Iran’s nuclear program and not extend to its military capabilities, which he called “non-negotiable.” He reiterated Iran’s position that the country’s right to enrich uranium domestically must be respected—a point the U.S. has opposed, with Russia reportedly siding with Washington on this matter, according to Axios.

On Iran’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Araghchi clarified that Tehran has not ceased its collaboration, but has restructured it. A new law passed on July 1 places future decisions regarding IAEA cooperation under the authority of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, rather than the Atomic Energy Organization. Araghchi stated that Iran will now respond to IAEA inspection requests “on a case-by-case basis,” considering both national interests and site safety.

He also highlighted potential hazards from recent attacks, warning of the risk of radioactive contamination and unexploded ordnance at nuclear sites.

Ultimately, Araghchi concluded that the recent conflict proved diplomacy is the only viable solution. “There is no alternative but a negotiated and agreed settlement,” he said, urging the international community to support renewed efforts for peace and stability.