Tehran | February 12, 2026
Iran Says It Wants Diplomacy but Is Prepared to Respond if Attacked
Iran has issued a firm message as nuclear negotiations with the United States continue. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran remains committed to a diplomatic solution but is fully prepared to respond if it faces military action.
In a recent interview, Araghchi stated that while dialogue remains the only viable path forward, recent developments have weakened Iran’s trust in Washington. His remarks underscore the fragile balance between ongoing negotiations and heightened regional tensions.
Trust Concerns Raised During Talks
Araghchi said Iran still supports continued discussions with the United States but cannot fully rely on past assurances.
He referenced events from last June, when negotiations were underway but hostilities occurred simultaneously. According to him, that experience reinforced Iran’s skepticism.
“Military threats or attacks cannot halt a nation’s technological progress,” Araghchi said, adding that only diplomacy can produce a sustainable resolution.
Iran Reaffirms Peaceful Nuclear Intentions
Iran reiterated that its uranium enrichment program is peaceful and within its sovereign rights.
Araghchi explained that nuclear power plants require enrichment levels below 5%, while Tehran’s research reactor uses up to 20% enriched uranium to produce medical isotopes used in cancer treatment.
He emphasized that the percentage of enrichment is less important than the program’s purpose. Tehran, he said, is prepared to provide guarantees that it will not pursue nuclear weapons.
No Talks on Missiles or Regional Alliances
Iran made clear that negotiations with the U.S. will focus solely on its nuclear program. Discussions will not include its ballistic missile program or regional allied groups.
Araghchi rejected those demands as unacceptable.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for any agreement with Iran to also address missile capabilities and regional security concerns.
Iran Claims Increased Military Readiness
Araghchi warned that if talks collapse and another attack occurs, Iran is prepared to retaliate.
He claimed that following last year’s airstrikes involving Israel and the United States, Iran strengthened both the quantity and quality of its military preparedness.
Araghchi accused Netanyahu of attempting to escalate tensions and draw the U.S. into a broader confrontation. He warned that in the event of renewed hostilities, U.S. bases in the region could also become targets.
