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Iran –  Iran has reiterated that it remains willing to pursue dialogue with other nations, but only within a framework built on equality and mutual respect. Speaking during a public appearance in Tehran, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made clear that negotiations carried out under pressure or threats would not be acceptable to the Islamic Republic, according to state broadcaster Press TV.

Visit Reflects Commitment to Founding Principles

Araghchi made the remarks on Monday while visiting the mausoleum of Imam Khomeini in southern Tehran. The visit included senior officials from the Foreign Ministry and was framed as a reaffirmation of loyalty to the values established by the founder of the Islamic Republic. Officials described the moment as symbolic, underscoring continuity in Iran’s political and diplomatic outlook.

During the visit, Araghchi emphasized that Iran’s approach to foreign relations has remained consistent over the years, rooted in sovereignty and national dignity.

Equal Footing Central to Iran’s Diplomacy

Highlighting Tehran’s long-standing diplomatic policy, the foreign minister said Iran has always favored engagement conducted on equal terms and with mutual respect. He stressed that diplomacy must serve the interests of the Iranian people and cannot succeed if one side attempts to impose its will through coercion.

Araghchi added that Iran’s response to other nations depends largely on how it is addressed. Respectful dialogue, he said, would be met in kind, while threats or intimidation would prompt a firm and proportional reaction.

Pressure and Diplomacy Cannot Coexist

Further outlining Tehran’s position, Araghchi stated that genuine diplomacy cannot operate alongside pressure tactics or intimidation. He said the Islamic Republic continues to pursue its diplomatic path with determination and strength, rejecting any approach that seeks concessions through force.

He also noted that Iran views diplomacy and resistance as complementary, not contradictory. According to Araghchi, the Foreign Ministry works in alignment with the Iranian Armed Forces to protect national interests, defend public rights, and safeguard the country’s security.

Reference to Last Year’s Conflict

Turning to recent history, Araghchi referred to a conflict last year that he described as unprovoked aggression by the United States and Israel. He said the attacks, which reportedly took place between June 13 and 27, 2025, resulted in at least 1,064 deaths.

According to Araghchi, the strikes occurred while Iran was engaged in indirect nuclear negotiations with Washington. During that period, he said, then US President Donald Trump publicly called for Iran’s unconditional surrender, a demand Tehran firmly rejected.

Retaliation and Ceasefire

Araghchi said Iran responded to the attacks with resistance and retaliatory actions. Following those responses, he added, opposing forces moved toward seeking an unconditional ceasefire, signaling a shift after Iran demonstrated its readiness to defend itself.

He framed these events as evidence that pressure-based strategies against Iran are ineffective and ultimately counterproductive.

Unrest and Security Allegations

Addressing domestic developments, Araghchi drew a distinction between constitutionally recognized civil protests and what he described as foreign-linked riots. He alleged that armed groups entered protest scenes as part of hostile efforts aimed at destabilizing the country.

The foreign minister characterized the violence as an extension of a 12-day conflict designed to undermine Iran’s internal stability rather than legitimate public dissent.

Casualties and Regional Tensions

Araghchi referred to reports from the Iran’s Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs, which stated that 3,117 people were killed during the unrest, including civilians and members of the security forces. He said the situation was further intensified by repeated military threats from Washington and increased US troop deployments across the region during and after the disturbances.