Iran warns it will continue self-defense

Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi says Tehran will continue to defend itself unless Israeli strikes stop, following high-level talks in Geneva with the foreign ministers of the UK, France, Germany, and the European Union’s top diplomat.

In a statement issued after the meeting, Araghchi said Iran expressed “serious concern” over the failure of the three European countries and the EU to condemn Israeli military actions. He warned that Iran would exercise what it sees as its legitimate right to self-defense to stop further aggression.

The talks focused in part on Iran’s nuclear program, which Araghchi insisted remains peaceful and under full supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). He called any attack on Iranian nuclear sites “a major crime and a severe violation of international law,”.

According to Western officials, Iranian representatives told their European counterparts that Tehran would only consider direct nuclear talks with the U.S. if Israel halts its attacks. In return, Iran could consider pausing its own strikes. The U.S. has reportedly conveyed that halting uranium enrichment would be a prerequisite for direct talks.

Despite the tensions, Araghchi signaled openness to diplomacy—if hostilities cease and those responsible for attacks are held accountable. However, he was clear that Iran’s defensive capabilities are not up for negotiation.

He concluded by welcoming continued dialogue with the European parties and said Iran is ready for another round of talks in the near future.

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