DUBAI, June 15 – Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has made it clear that Tehran does not seek to escalate its ongoing conflict with Israel into a broader regional war, but is ready to defend its position whenever threatened. Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, Araqchi emphasized that Iran’s recent military responses have been carried out strictly in the context of self-defense, and would cease if Israeli aggression came to an end.
“We do not want this confrontation to spread to neighboring countries or destabilize the region,” Araqchi stated. “Nonetheless, if compelled, we will safeguard our nation and citizens with unwavering strength.”
Araqchi’s remarks come in the wake of rising tensions following Israeli airstrikes targeting strategic Iranian installations, including a notable attack on the offshore South Pars gas field, which Iran jointly operates with Qatar. He called the strike a “clear act of hostility” and cautioned against the serious risks involved in hitting a vital energy asset.
“Targeting our South Pars facility is not only an aggression against Iran’s energy infrastructure but a direct attempt to destabilize the Persian Gulf region,” Araqchi said. “Dragging this conflict into the Gulf is a dangerous miscalculation, and one that could have serious repercussions for the entire region.”
The foreign minister strongly condemned Israel’s actions, stating that they appeared calculated to widen the scope of conflict and derail ongoing diplomatic efforts, particularly the delicate negotiations surrounding Iran’s nuclear program. Talks aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear agreement had been showing signs of progress, but recent escalations have put further discussions on hold.
“We were prepared to present a comprehensive proposal during the sixth round of talks, scheduled for this Sunday,” Araqchi explained. “Unfortunately, these talks were postponed following the unprovoked attacks. This is a deliberate attempt to sabotage diplomatic progress.”
He went on to accuse Israel of undermining regional peace efforts and of trying to provoke a reaction that would justify further military action. “Their goal is clear: to ensure no agreement is reached and to maintain a state of perpetual conflict in the region,” Araqchi said.
Tehran has repeatedly stated that its military operations are in response to acts of aggression, not provocations. According to the Iranian foreign minister, the strikes conducted by Iranian forces in recent days were measured responses, designed to deter further attacks rather than escalate hostilities.
“If the aggression against us stops, our response will also stop,” Araqchi reiterated. “We are not interested in war, but we will never stand idly by while our sovereignty is violated.”
Araqchi also addressed the role of the United States in the unfolding events. While Washington has denied any direct involvement in the Israeli strikes, the Iranian official expressed deep skepticism over those denials, suggesting that such military operations would not have taken place without at least tacit approval from the U.S.
Araqchi stated that the assault could not have taken place without prior approval or backing from Washington. “The U.S. has long supported Israel both politically and militarily. If they are truly not involved, let them prove it.”
He urged the U.S. administration to distance itself from what he termed as “reckless” Israeli actions and called on American officials to publicly condemn the attacks on Iranian nuclear and energy facilities if they wish to demonstrate genuine interest in diplomacy.
“Words are not enough,” he said. “If the United States wants to show goodwill and a true commitment to peace and diplomacy, it must take a firm stand against these violations.”
Despite the rising tensions, Araqchi noted that Iran remains committed to peaceful negotiation and is still hopeful that diplomatic channels can be restored, provided there is a genuine effort to respect Iran’s national sovereignty and security.
He concluded by saying that Iran is still willing to engage in talks, provided they are grounded in mutual respect and accompanied by an end to aggression. “Peace cannot be achieved through threats and bombs—it can only come through constructive engagement.”
As regional powers and international observers watch closely, the situation remains tense, with the risk of escalation hanging in the balance. For now, Tehran appears to be drawing a line: it will not initiate a wider war, but it will not be intimidated into silence either. The coming days may prove crucial in determining whether diplomacy can prevail, or if the region is set to witness yet another devastating conflict.