Iranian FM Araghchi Affirms Retaliation Ongoing, Nuclear Facilities Off-Limits
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that the second phase of Operation True Promise 3 included a direct strike on the Israeli-occupied Haifa oil refinery, marking a continued and calculated response to recent Israeli aggression.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, Araghchi confirmed that Iran's retaliatory actions are ongoing and grounded in international law. 'This is our legitimate right to defend ourselves against aggression,' he stated firmly.
Precision Strikes Inside Occupied Territories
Araghchi explained that Iran's retaliatory strikes have been focused strictly on military and strategic targets within the Zionist entity. He confirmed that military sites were struck Friday evening, underscoring Tehran's commitment to restraint and proportionality.
'We do not seek to expand the war—but we will not hesitate to defend our nation if one is imposed on us,' he said.
Nuclear Sites Are a Red Line
Reiterating Iran's long-standing position, Araghchi declared that any attack on Iranian nuclear facilities constitutes a 'serious violation' and a red line that will not be tolerated.
He called on the international community to unequivocally condemn the targeting of peaceful nuclear infrastructure.
Araghchi says Iran 'DOES NOT believe' Trump's claims he's not involved in Israeli strikes
Adds America must state it 'explicitly and publicly': 'a private message is not sufficient'
Expects US to 'explicitly distance itself from this conflict' https://t.co/5lP4EBKDPL pic.twitter.com/LJDjkPGJWh
— RT (@RT_com) June 15, 2025
Washington Must Accept Responsibility
Turning to the role of the United States, Araghchi made clear that Iran holds Washington complicit in the Israeli aggression. 'We have documents confirming that US military bases in the region provided support for the Israeli attacks,' he revealed.
He urged the US administration to clearly disavow the strike on Iran's nuclear facilities if it wishes to demonstrate good faith.
'The US must clarify its position and condemn the targeting of civilian infrastructure—particularly nuclear sites—if it seeks credibility in the eyes of the world,' Araghchi added.
Diplomatic Track and Israeli Obstruction
On the state of indirect talks with the United States, Araghchi stated that five rounds have already taken place, with a sixth round scheduled before the escalation. He noted that Iran had prepared a new proposal, which was to be presented at the upcoming session.
FM Araghchi accused the Israeli enemy of actively working to sabotage diplomatic efforts.
'The Zionist regime has persistently attempted to derail negotiations, fearing any progress toward diplomatic resolution.'
Diplomatic Meetings Planned
Araghchi also announced plans for a closed-door meeting with ambassadors of various countries in Tehran to discuss the Israeli aggression and Iran's response. The session aims to brief the diplomatic community on Tehran's position and the legal framework behind its actions.
The Israeli occupation launched an unprecedented attack on Iran early Friday, striking sites in Tehran and several other provinces. In response, Iran initiated Operation True Promise 3, targeting key Israeli military and industrial centers.
The operation, which included missile strikes on the occupied cities of Tel Aviv and Haifa, has reinforced Iran's message: any assault on its sovereignty will be met with lawful, measured, and unwavering resistance.
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