By The South Asia Times

TEHRAN - Iran is prepared to reach a “reassuring agreement” over its nuclear program but will not accept a deal that eliminates uranium enrichment, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Saturday, underscoring Tehran’s firm position as diplomatic contacts with the United States resume, according to Anadolu agency.

In an interview with Qatar-based Al Jazeera, Araghchi said negotiations remain the only viable path to resolving the long-running dispute over Iran’s nuclear activities. He described recent indirect talks with Washington as “a good starting point,” while cautioning that rebuilding trust between the two countries would take time.

“A long road remains to restore confidence,” he said, adding that Tehran is ready to pursue realistic negotiations aimed at securing a fair, mutually beneficial outcome.

However, Araghchi drew a clear red line on enrichment. “Zero enrichment is not on the negotiating table,” he said, calling the capability a guaranteed national right that “must continue.” He added that Iran is willing to reduce enrichment levels and take confidence-building steps but insisted that enriched uranium would remain inside the country.

The foreign minister also ruled out any discussion of Iran’s missile program, describing it as a strictly defensive matter that will not be negotiated “now or in the future.”

The renewed diplomatic engagement follows weeks of heightened tensions, including threats of military action from US President Donald Trump. Despite the friction, Araghchi said the indirect talks — reportedly facilitated in Muscat — created space for limited engagement, even allowing for what he described as the possibility of “a handshake” between delegations.

There is no confirmed date for a second round of negotiations, though both sides believe further talks should take place soon, he said, noting that a change in venue remains possible.

Addressing security concerns, Araghchi said Iran does not seek conflict with neighboring states but would target US military bases in the region if attacked. While acknowledging that Iran lacks the capability to strike the US mainland, he warned that any American assault could trigger broader regional escalation.

“The possibility of war always exists, but we are working to prevent it,” he said. “We do not want a regional war, and neither do the countries of the region.”

Araghchi also pushed back against the effectiveness of military pressure, saying Iran’s nuclear capabilities have endured despite past attacks. “Even bombardment failed to destroy our capacities,” he said.

Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, whose country has served as a mediator, described the latest discussions as “very serious,” saying they helped clarify positions and identify areas where progress may be possible.

Araghchi signaled Iran’s urgency in reaching an agreement, saying he had told mediators he was prepared to remain in Muscat “for as long as necessary” to finalize a meaningful deal quickly.

The talks were limited exclusively to the nuclear issue, he added, reinforcing Tehran’s stance that other defense-related matters remain off the table.