SAEDNEWS: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has declared that Iran remains fully prepared for renewed hostilities despite a current pause in fighting with Israel, warning that the truce is fragile and underscoring Tehran’s insistence on diplomacy as the only sustainable path forward.
According to Saed News, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has cautioned that the current ceasefire following Israel’s military strikes should not be mistaken for stability, describing the pause in hostilities as "fragile" and conditional. In an interview with China’s CGTN, Araghchi reiterated that Iran does not seek war but remains fully equipped to defend its territory and respond decisively if provoked.
“We didn’t start this conflict, and we don’t wish for it to continue — but we are fully prepared for any scenario,” Araghchi said, framing the confrontation as an unprovoked Israeli assault. “We stood firm on our own soil and ultimately forced the aggressors to request an unconditional ceasefire.”
Despite the cessation of hostilities, Araghchi cast doubt on the reliability of any truce with Israel, citing its “track record” and warning that Tehran remains vigilant.
Addressing the nuclear issue, Araghchi signaled Tehran’s continued skepticism toward Washington’s intentions. He stressed that Iran would only return to negotiations if the United States demonstrates genuine commitment to diplomacy, rather than “mere words.” Referencing the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), he criticized the U.S. withdrawal from the agreement as a pivotal misstep with ongoing repercussions.
“There is still a chance for a negotiated solution,” he said, “but only if the military option is taken off the table entirely.”
Araghchi also emphasized Iran’s growing role in multilateral platforms such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, hailing its full membership as a strategic shift toward Global South alliances. He thanked SCO members for condemning the Israeli-American strikes, which he labeled “grave violations of international law” and a threat to global safety due to their targeting of nuclear sites.
The foreign minister concluded with praise for China’s support and stressed that future negotiations must be rooted in mutual respect, international law, and a shared commitment to peace.
