Iran's peaceful nuclear program has become a matter of national pride and glory. This was stated by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in an interview with the American television channel CBS News, quoted by the Iranian state agency IRNA, BTA reports.
Araghchi emphasized the Islamic Republic's legal right to enrich uranium, noting:
„We have experienced a 12-day imposed war. Therefore, our people will not give up their right to enrichment.“
In response to attempts by Israel and the US to eliminate Iran's nuclear program, he said:
“No one can destroy enrichment technology and science with bombs. If we have the will - and we do - we can quickly repair the damage and make up for lost time.“
Regarding the possibility of resuming indirect talks with the US on lifting sanctions and the nuclear program, Araghchi said:
“The doors of diplomacy have never been closed.“ However, he expressed doubt that the talks would resume soon, adding that Iran was demanding “certain guarantees“ from Washington.
„In order to decide whether to renew ties, we must first be sure that America will not strike us again during the negotiations. Given this, we still need time“, the minister specified.
Araghchi also commented on the possibility of a military escalation with Israel:
„During the 12-day imposed war, we showed that we are capable of defending ourselves. We will continue to do so if any aggression is committed against us.“
If you want a shorter version for a news broadcast or a translation for an international audience, I can adapt it further.