DUBAI, Feb 8: Iran’s top diplomat has struck a firm tone following recent negotiations with the United States, underscoring Tehran’s insistence on strategic independence amid rising regional and domestic tensions.
Speaking at a diplomatic summit in Tehran on Sunday, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran’s true strength lies in its ability to resist pressure from global powers, particularly the US.
Hard line after nuclear negotiations
Araghchi’s remarks came just days after indirect Iran-US talks were held in Oman over Tehran’s nuclear programme. While President Masoud Pezeshkian described the discussions as a “step forward,” Araghchi’s comments highlighted the gulf that remains between the two sides.
He reiterated Iran’s position that it must retain the right to enrich uranium, a central point of contention with Washington. US President Donald Trump has taken a confrontational stance, including authorising airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites during the recent 12-day Iran-Israel conflict.
‘Power to say no’
In a forceful speech, Araghchi framed resistance as Iran’s ultimate deterrent. He said Iran does not seek a nuclear weapon, but instead relies on what he described as the “power to say no” to bullying and domination.
His repeated use of the term “atomic bomb” as a metaphor drew attention, particularly given longstanding Western and International Atomic Energy Agency concerns that Iran pursued an organised weapons programme until 2003.
Iran has enriched uranium up to 60% purity—close to weapons-grade levels—fueling international alarm. Although Iranian leaders cite a religious decree by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei banning nuclear weapons, officials have increasingly hinted in recent years that Iran could pursue a bomb if pressured.
Military pressure in the region
The US has simultaneously increased its military presence in the Middle East, moving the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, along with warships and aircraft, into the region. During the Oman talks, the head of US Central Command, Adm.
Brad Cooper, was present and later visited the carrier alongside US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, signaling Washington’s readiness to use force if diplomacy fails.
Uncertain path ahead
Araghchi warned that negotiations could quickly unravel, noting that Iran had previously been attacked during talks. While Pezeshkian continues to stress dialogue and mutual respect, it remains unclear whether a second round of talks will take place.
Trump offered few details afterward, saying only that Iran appeared eager to reach a deal, leaving the future of diplomacy uncertain. (AP)
