Iran foreign minister Araghchi wrote in the Financial Times that during meetings
with several counterparts at last month’s UN General Assembly he conveyed a
consistent message: Iran seeks a just, dignified agreement with the United
States, but the White House must show genuine intent and cease aggressive
actions. He said Iran is committed to resolving the conflict peacefully and with
dignity, but is prepared to defend itself. Araghchi blamed Trump for launching
the war based on a fundamental misjudgment of Iran’s strength and said Iran has
no confidence in US claims of willingness to coexist peacefully. Given what he
described as the White House’s lack of willingness to reach consensus and its
threats of further violence, he sees little reason to expect progress, though as
a diplomat he will still attempt negotiations despite slim odds of success.
