Iran warns of stronger response to renewed attacks

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned on Sunday that any renewed military aggression against Iran would face a stronger response, while stressing that Tehran’s diplomatic door remains open.

Addressing ambassadors and heads of foreign and international missions in Tehran, Araghchi said Iran was “serious and firm” about defending itself.

“If our enemies once again choose the path of military confrontation, they will face a stronger response than before,” he said, adding that Iran would defend itself “more powerfully than before”.

Araghchi said Tehran was prepared to negotiate an end to the war if the other side chose diplomacy over military action.

He also highlighted Iran’s seven-day proposal presented during the UN General Assembly in New York, saying the plan would allow the Strait of Hormuz to reopen within seven days if accepted.

The foreign minister said Iran had since received Washington’s official response to the proposal through diplomatic channels, although its details had not been made public.

Araghchi rejected claims that Iran was becoming internationally isolated, pointing to the number of countries that sought meetings with the Iranian delegation in New York.

He also dismissed reports that the Iranian delegation had been expelled from the United States as “childish and vulgar”.

He said renewed contacts with Persian Gulf states had been “effective, respectful and friendly”, adding that a new path toward “trust, peace, stability and security” had begun.

Araghchi also called on European governments to reconsider their approach to Iran, saying there was “no military solution and no solution based on more sanctions”.

He said negotiations based on “justice, fairness and diplomatic dignity” were the only way to end the conflict.