Iran’s foreign minister says the country will not abandon its nuclear ambitions – despite U.S. airstrikes in late June on three key facilities. In an interview with Fox News on Monday, July 21, Abbas Araghchi declared that Tehran will not give up its uranium enrichment program.
Uranium enrichment to continue
Araghchi told the network that such enrichment has become a symbol of national pride for Iran and will persist. He said, “It is an achievement of our own scientists. And now, more than that, it is a question of national pride.”
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Damage done by US bombing campaign
The United States bombed three Iranian nuclear locations on the weekend of June 21, deploying 30,000-pound GBU-57 bunker-buster bombs on underground enrichment structures and facilities at Fordo and Natanz, and launching cruise missiles at targets in Isfahan.
Though assessments of the strike’s impact have varied, Araghchi confirmed the destruction was extensive, stating the “damages are serious and severe” and that enrichment of uranium, to make nuclear material, is now stopped. However, he emphasized that buildings and facilities can be rebuilt, machines can be replaced and scientists are there to continue their work.
Nuclear intentions
Tehran insists its nuclear program is intended solely for civilian energy use. Araghchi reiterated Iran’s goal to produce fuel for domestic needs and nuclear power plants. He also said Iran would “carefully consider” allowing International Atomic Emergency Agency (IAEA) monitors to assess the damaged facilities.
President Donald Trump has repeatedly said that Iran must never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. The U.S. airstrikes followed Israeli attacks in mid-June, which sparked a nearly two-week air war between Iran and Israel.
Trump response to Araghchi’s remarks
After Araghchi’s Fox News interview, Trump responded on Truth Social, writing: “Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, on the Iran Nuclear Sites: “Damages are very severe, they are destroyed.” Of course they are, just like I said, and we will do it again if necessary!”
What comes next?
Araghchi said Iran is open to talks and negotiations with Washington to find a solution regarding its nuclear program, but no direct talks are currently scheduled.
