Iran Won’t Give Up Enrichment: FM

In an interview with CBS News, Araqchi commented on the situation following the Israeli and US military aggression against Iran, which was carried out in the course of negotiations between Tehran and Washington.

"I don't think negotiations will restart as quickly as that," he said.

"In order for us to decide to reengage, we will have to first ensure that America will not revert back to targeting us in a military attack during the negotiations," Araqchi said. "And I think with all these considerations, we still need more time."

However, Araqchi also said, “The doors of diplomacy will never slam shut.”

Asked about the reports that the Israeli and US strikes have destroyed Iran’s nuclear sites, Araqchi said, "One cannot obliterate the technology and science for enrichment through bombings."

"If there is this will on our part, and the will exists in order to once again make progress in this industry, we will be able to expeditiously repair the damages and make up for the lost time," he said.

When asked if Iran intends to continue enriching uranium, Araqchi said the country's "peaceful nuclear program has turned into a matter of national pride and glory. We have also gone through 12 days of imposed war, therefore, people will not easily back down from enrichment."

Dismissing US President Donald Trump’s threat that he could order strikes on Iran again should it resume enriching uranium beyond a certain level, Araqchi questioned the legality of such action and said Iran was prepared for more attacks.

"We showed and proved during this 12-day imposed war that we have the ability to defend ourselves, and we will continue to do so should any aggression be launched against us," the foreign minister said./tasnim