Iran Open to U.S. Talks but Demands Accountability and Compensation
Tehran, July 11, 2025 – Iran is prepared to resume nuclear negotiations with the United States, provided they are grounded in mutual respect and assurances against further aggression, Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi announced in a Le Monde interview on Thursday. He stressed that Washington must take responsibility for recent attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities and guarantee no military actions during talks.
On June 22, 2025, U.S. forces joined Israel in targeting three Iranian nuclear sites—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan—in what Araghchi called a clear violation of international law and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). These strikes followed Israel’s June 13 attack, which killed several Iranian military commanders and nuclear scientists. Araghchi condemned the silence of Western nations, arguing it undermines the global non-proliferation framework. “Attacking IAEA-monitored facilities is an attack on international law itself,” he said.
Iran, Araghchi asserted, reserves the right to seek compensation for damages to its peaceful nuclear program, which supports medical, agricultural, and energy needs. He dismissed claims that the program was destroyed, noting Iran’s scientific resilience and IAEA reports confirming no weapons-related activities.
Diplomatic channels remain active through third-party nations, with efforts underway to establish a secure communication line. However, Araghchi warned that new sanctions, such as Europe’s potential reimposition of 2015 nuclear deal penalties, would derail diplomacy as effectively as military strikes.
Recent web reports, including a July 10 statement from IAEA chief Rafael Grossi, support Iran’s position, emphasizing that military action cannot eliminate its nuclear program and urging a verified diplomatic solution. Posts on X also highlight Iran’s demand for a U.S. condemnation of Israel’s initial aggression as a prerequisite for talks.
The 12-day conflict ended with a U.S.-announced ceasefire on June 24, but tensions persist. Araghchi underscored that diplomacy is possible only if the U.S. acknowledges its actions and commits to restraint, signaling Iran’s readiness for dialogue but not at the cost of its dignity.
