'Wounds of US aggression still alive...': Iranian FM says nuclear deal is achievable with the US

The Economic TimesAbout 4 min readFeb 26, 2026Watch original
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Key Concepts

  • NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty): An international treaty whose objective is to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology.
  • Sanctions: Economic penalties applied to a country, used to coerce changes in policy.
  • Peaceful Use of Nuclear Technology: Utilizing nuclear energy for non-military applications like power generation, medical isotopes, and research.
  • Reciprocity: The principle of exchanging things with others for mutual benefit – in this context, confidence-building measures in exchange for sanctions relief.
  • Legitimate Targets: Military objectives permissible under international law during armed conflict.

Nuclear Negotiations & Regional Security Concerns

The speaker outlines a cautiously optimistic outlook for upcoming negotiations with the US team in Geneva, aiming for a “fair, balanced, and equitable deal” regarding Iran’s nuclear program. He emphasizes that progress was made in previous rounds of talks, leading to “some sort of understandings” that can form the basis of an agreement. A core demand is the termination of sanctions in return for increased confidence-building measures related to Iran’s nuclear program. He explicitly states, “We are ready to answer questions. We are ready to remove concerns but we are not ready to give up our right for peaceful use of nuclear technology.”

The speaker repeatedly stresses Iran’s commitment to the NPT, clarifying that while Iran has accepted not to pursue nuclear weapons, it maintains its “full rights” to utilize nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. He frames this as a non-negotiable position. He asserts, “We are a committed member of NPT… and we have accepted not to have nuclear weapons but at the same time we have full rights… to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.”

Historical Context & US-Iran Relations

A significant undercurrent throughout the statement is the lingering distrust stemming from past US actions. The speaker references a previous negotiation period that was interrupted by an Israeli attack, followed by US involvement. He states, “When Israel attacked us and then the US joined that attack, so that memory is still fresh for us. The wounds of that aggression is still alive in our minds.” This historical context is presented as a factor influencing Iran’s current negotiating stance, highlighting a perceived pattern of broken trust. He reiterates, “We were negotiating last June when Israel attacked us and then the US joined that attack. So that memory is still fresh for us.”

Regional Security & Potential Retaliation

The speaker addresses recent security incidents, detailing confrontations between January 8th, 9th, and 10th, resulting in approximately 3,100 casualties, with 2,500 identified as “martyrs” killed by “terrorist groups.” He acknowledges the cooperation of neighboring countries in preventing their territories from being used against Iran, expressing gratitude for their positions. However, he issues a stark warning regarding potential US aggression. He states, “But if god forbid uh the US decides to attack us then they bases in the region would be an legitimate target.” This statement is qualified by noting that there are currently “no plan[s] to execute” such retaliation, pending the outcome of ongoing legal proceedings.

Domestic Situation & Leadership

Responding to a question about the Supreme Leader’s health, the speaker assures the public that he is “absolutely fine and healthy,” regularly appearing in public and delivering speeches. This statement appears intended to dispel any rumors or concerns about the leader’s well-being.

Direct Engagement & Communication

When asked about a message for President Trump, the speaker dismisses the need, stating, “Well, I'm going to meet his team tomorrow in Geneva. So uh no no no messages needed.” This response underscores the speaker’s focus on direct engagement with the US negotiating team rather than indirect communication through public messaging.

Logical Connections

The speaker consistently links Iran’s willingness to cooperate on nuclear transparency with the reciprocal expectation of sanctions relief. The historical grievances regarding past US actions are presented as a justification for Iran’s cautious approach and insistence on verifiable guarantees. The discussion of regional security threats and potential retaliation serves as a warning against further escalation and a demonstration of Iran’s resolve to defend its interests.

Data & Statistics

  • Casualties (Jan 8-10): Approximately 3,100
  • Martyrs (Jan 8-10): 2,500 (identified by Iranian authorities)

Conclusion

The speaker presents a complex picture of Iran’s position ahead of the Geneva negotiations. While expressing optimism about reaching a “fair and balanced” agreement, he firmly defends Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear technology and emphasizes the importance of reciprocity – sanctions relief in exchange for confidence-building measures. The statement is heavily influenced by historical distrust of US actions and includes a clear warning regarding potential retaliation in the event of further aggression. The overall message is one of cautious engagement, coupled with a resolute defense of Iran’s national interests and security.

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