Iran warns US bases at risk, keeps door open for nuclear talks

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that Tehran would target American military bases in the region if attacked by the United States, while simultaneously emphasising that diplomacy over Iran’s nuclear program remains achievable.

Speaking in an interview with CBS News, Araghchi said Iran retains the right to self-defense and would respond to any US strike by hitting American facilities in the region, Caliber.Az reports.

"Obviously, we defend ourselves. If the US attacks us, then we have every right to defend ourselves. If the US attacks us that is the act of aggression. What we do in response is the act of self defense. So and it is justifiable and legitimate," FM stressed.

He noted that Iranian missiles cannot reach US territory, making regional bases a likely target, but stressed that a diplomatic solution to the nuclear issue is still possible.

The minister added that a future nuclear understanding should be simplified into a framework confirming the peaceful nature of Iran’s atomic program while ensuring the lifting of sanctions. 

"We went into so many details, but I think right now, there is no need for that much details. We can agree on basic things, and we can make sure that Iran's program, nuclear program, is peaceful and will remain peaceful forever, and at the same time, more sanctions would be lifted," he noted.

Araghchi also highlighted that a decade has passed since the signing of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), noting that Iran’s nuclear program has advanced significantly during this period.

"So I believe that a better deal than JCPOA or 2015 nuclear deal is possible. And there are elements that could be much better than the previous deal," Iranian minister said.

At the same time, he underlined that Iran will not abandon its nuclear activities, describing uranium enrichment as a sovereign right and pointing out that the country’s program has advanced significantly over the past decade.

Araghchi also revealed that he may meet US presidential envoy Steve Witkoff in Geneva on February 26, as discussions continue over Washington’s proposals. 

He said both sides are working on elements that could address mutual concerns and expressed confidence that the upcoming meeting could help finalise a strong draft and quickly move toward an agreement.

By Jeyhun Aghazada