New Delhi: India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a telephone conversation on Friday evening with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, and conveyed New Delhi’s deep concerns over hostilities in WesAraghchi andtacks on commercial shipping.&nbsp;In a statement by India, EAM Jaishankar “strongly urged that attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers be avoided under any circumstance. India condemns any such attack by any party.”&nbsp;&nbsp;He was briefed on Iran’s perspective of current developments and ongoing discussions. India reiterated its consistent support for “dialogue and diplomacy”.&nbsp;The call comes against a backdrop of repeated disruptions to one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. The Strait of Hormuz, through which a large share of global oil supplies passes, has seen multiple incidents targeting commercial vessels this year.&nbsp;Indian seafarers have paid a particularly heavy price. In recent months, multiple incidents have left Indian crew members dead or injured. Overall, at least 8 Indian sailors have been killed and dozens injured since hostilities intensified, prompting public anger and official demands for the protection of civilian mariners who form a significant portion of the global shipping workforce.&nbsp;India, which relies heavily on energy imports transiting the region and has large numbers of its nationals working on merchant ships, has repeatedly stressed the need to keep sea lanes open and protect civilian lives.&nbsp;&nbsp;The telephonic talk comes as India prepares to host the BRICS Summit in September. India and Iran, both full members of the expanded BRICS grouping, continue to engage closely as New Delhi holds the bloc’s 2026 chairmanship.&nbsp;&nbsp;Iran joined BRICS in 2024 alongside Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and later Indonesia, expanding the original five-nation group. India is chairing BRICS for the fourth time in 2026 under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”

Indian seafarers have paid a particularly heavy price. In recent months, multiple incidents have left Indian crew members dead or injured. Overall, at least 8 Indian sailors have been killed and dozens injured since hostilities intensified.

New Delhi: India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a telephone conversation on Friday evening with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, and conveyed New Delhi’s deep concerns over hostilities in WesAraghchi andtacks on commercial shipping. In a statement by India, EAM Jaishankar “strongly urged that attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers be avoided under any circumstance. India condemns any such attack by any party.” He was briefed on Iran’s perspective of current developments and ongoing discussions. India reiterated its consistent support for “dialogue and diplomacy”. The call comes against a backdrop of repeated disruptions to one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. The Strait of Hormuz, through which a large share of global oil supplies passes, has seen multiple incidents targeting commercial vessels this year. Indian seafarers have paid a particularly heavy price. In recent months, multiple incidents have left Indian crew members dead or injured. Overall, at least 8 Indian sailors have been killed and dozens injured since hostilities intensified, prompting public anger and official demands for the protection of civilian mariners who form a significant portion of the global shipping workforce. India, which relies heavily on energy imports transiting the region and has large numbers of its nationals working on merchant ships, has repeatedly stressed the need to keep sea lanes open and protect civilian lives. The telephonic talk comes as India prepares to host the BRICS Summit in September. India and Iran, both full members of the expanded BRICS grouping, continue to engage closely as New Delhi holds the bloc’s 2026 chairmanship. Iran joined BRICS in 2024 alongside Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and later Indonesia, expanding the original five-nation group. India is chairing BRICS for the fourth time in 2026 under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”

Indian seafarers have paid a particularly heavy price. In recent months, multiple incidents have left Indian crew members dead or injured. Overall, at least 8 Indian sailors have been killed and dozens injured since hostilities intensified.

Shipping safety raised during EAM Jaishankar, Iran FM Araghchi talks

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi returned to Pakistan on Sunday (April 26) following a brief visit to Oman, state media reported, even though his itinerary initially included travel from Muscat to Moscow. This comes after US President Trump cancelled a planned envoy visit to Islamabad intended for peace negotiations with Tehran.&nbsp;Iran's official IRNA news agency said Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had arrived during the early evening in Pakistan, which has served as a mediator in diplomatic efforts to end the Middle East war.&nbsp;Despite calling off the US delegation's visit, the President signalled a continued willingness to negotiate after nearly 39 days of conflict, stating that Iranian negotiators could call Washington "anytime they want." He clarified that the cancelled visit did not automatically mean a resumption of full-scale war, despite the setback in peace efforts.&nbsp;However, the US President also claimed via Truth Social that there is "tremendous infighting and confusion" within the Islamic Republic’s leadership, asserting that “nobody knows who is in charge.”&nbsp;"I just cancelled the trip of my representatives going to Islamabad, Pakistan, to meet with the Iranians. Too much time wasted on travelling, too much work! Besides which, there is tremendous infighting and confusion within their ‘leadership’. Nobody knows who is in charge, including them. Also, we have all the cards; they have none! If they want to talk, all they have to do is call!!!," Trump said on Truth Social.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-only-a-matter-of-time-report-claims-fbi-chief-kash-patel-is-next-big-exit-from-trump-administration-1777206160680">‘Only a matter of time’: Report claims FBI Chief Kash Patel is next big exit from Trump administration</a>&nbsp;Later, the President claimed that Iran had submitted a new proposal just 10 minutes after he announced that envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner would not be sent to Pakistan.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters outside Air Force One, he noted that while the initial proposal fell short, the revised offer was significantly improved. “They gave us a paper that should have been better, and interestingly, immediately, when I cancelled it... We got a new paper that was much better,” he said, adding, “They offered a lot but not enough.”&nbsp;The cancellation of the Witkoff-Kushner trip occurred at the last moment, shortly after Araghchi had initially departed Islamabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;Before his first departure on Sunday, Araghchi had met with key mediation figures, including Field Marshal Asim Munir, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

Araghchi’s original itinerary included travel to Moscow from Muscat, but he returned to Islamabad just hours after his departure following consultations with Pakistani leadership.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi returned to Pakistan on Sunday (April 26) following a brief visit to Oman, state media reported, even though his itinerary initially included travel from Muscat to Moscow. This comes after US President Trump cancelled a planned envoy visit to Islamabad intended for peace negotiations with Tehran. Iran's official IRNA news agency said Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had arrived during the early evening in Pakistan, which has served as a mediator in diplomatic efforts to end the Middle East war. Despite calling off the US delegation's visit, the President signalled a continued willingness to negotiate after nearly 39 days of conflict, stating that Iranian negotiators could call Washington "anytime they want." He clarified that the cancelled visit did not automatically mean a resumption of full-scale war, despite the setback in peace efforts. However, the US President also claimed via Truth Social that there is "tremendous infighting and confusion" within the Islamic Republic’s leadership, asserting that “nobody knows who is in charge.” "I just cancelled the trip of my representatives going to Islamabad, Pakistan, to meet with the Iranians. Too much time wasted on travelling, too much work! Besides which, there is tremendous infighting and confusion within their ‘leadership’. Nobody knows who is in charge, including them. Also, we have all the cards; they have none! If they want to talk, all they have to do is call!!!," Trump said on Truth Social. Also Read: ‘Only a matter of time’: Report claims FBI Chief Kash Patel is next big exit from Trump administration Later, the President claimed that Iran had submitted a new proposal just 10 minutes after he announced that envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner would not be sent to Pakistan. Speaking to reporters outside Air Force One, he noted that while the initial proposal fell short, the revised offer was significantly improved. “They gave us a paper that should have been better, and interestingly, immediately, when I cancelled it... We got a new paper that was much better,” he said, adding, “They offered a lot but not enough.” The cancellation of the Witkoff-Kushner trip occurred at the last moment, shortly after Araghchi had initially departed Islamabad. Before his first departure on Sunday, Araghchi had met with key mediation figures, including Field Marshal Asim Munir, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

Araghchi’s original itinerary included travel to Moscow from Muscat, but he returned to Islamabad just hours after his departure following consultations with Pakistani leadership.

Iran FM returns to Pakistan following Oman visit and US envoy cancellation

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday (April 21) that a US blockade of Iranian ports amounts to an ‘act of war’ and violates an existing ceasefire agreement. In a post on X, Araghchi also said that ‘striking a commercial vessel and taking its crew hostage is an even greater violation’. “Iran knows how to neutralize restrictions, how to defend its interests, and how to resist bullying,” he added.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran’s hesitation about participating in negotiations in Pakistan is not due to indecision, but stems from what he described as mixed signals and actions from the United States. “The reason is not indecision; it is because of contradictory messages, contradictory behaviors, and unacceptable actions by the American side,” Baghaei said, according to Iranian state media.He added that Iran would decide on joining talks “whenever they become results-oriented.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sheila-cherfilus-mccormick-resigns-from-congress-amid-ethics-violations-investigation-third-house-member-to-quit-this-month-1776797264910">Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick resigns from Congress amid ethics violations investigation; third House member to quit this month</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Blockading Iranian ports is an act of war and thus a violation of the ceasefire. Striking a commercial vessel and taking its crew hostage is an even greater violation. Iran knows how to neutralize restrictions, how to defend its interests, and how to resist bullying.&mdash; Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) <a href="https://twitter.com/araghchi/status/2046654326517772450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Baghaei also condemned reported US attacks on Iranian vessels, calling them “a gross violation of international law,” as well as “maritime piracy and state terrorism.” Earlier, he accused Washington of “resorting to blame-shifting while violating the ceasefire and failing to implement key commitments, including the Lebanon truce.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/congress-president-mallikarjun-kharge-calls-pm-modi-a-terrorist-later-issues-a-clarification-1776790787864/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/congress-president-mallikarjun-kharge-calls-pm-modi-a-terrorist-later-issues-a-clarification-1776790787864/embed</a>&nbsp;Iran’s ambassador to Germany, Majid Ahmadabadi, said Tehran remains open to “real negotiations in Islamabad,” but not under coercive conditions, according to official reports. Pakistan is still awaiting formal confirmation from Iran on whether it will attend peace talks with the US this week, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said earlier.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iran accuses the US of an “act of war” over port blockade and ceasefire violations, raising tensions as uncertainty surrounds upcoming negotiations in Pakistan

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday (April 21) that a US blockade of Iranian ports amounts to an ‘act of war’ and violates an existing ceasefire agreement. In a post on X, Araghchi also said that ‘striking a commercial vessel and taking its crew hostage is an even greater violation’. “Iran knows how to neutralize restrictions, how to defend its interests, and how to resist bullying,” he added. Meanwhile, Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran’s hesitation about participating in negotiations in Pakistan is not due to indecision, but stems from what he described as mixed signals and actions from the United States. “The reason is not indecision; it is because of contradictory messages, contradictory behaviors, and unacceptable actions by the American side,” Baghaei said, according to Iranian state media. He added that Iran would decide on joining talks “whenever they become results-oriented.” Also Read: Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick resigns from Congress amid ethics violations investigation; third House member to quit this month

Iran calls the US port blockade an ‘act of war’, citing ceasefire violations, as tensions rise and uncertainty surrounds upcoming US-Iran talks

'Iran knows how to neutralise restrictions and how to resist bullying': Araghchi accuses US of ceasefire violations

Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s foreign minister, has drawn a sharp comparison between the current US-Iran conflict and the Vietnam War, warning that official American narratives may not reflect realities on the ground. In a series of posts, Araghchi invoked a well-known episode from the Vietnam era, the “Five O’Clock Follies,” the daily US military briefings in Saigon that painted an overly optimistic picture despite mounting casualties and setbacks.&nbsp;He pointed to how William Westmoreland, who led US forces in Vietnam, reassured Americans in 1967 that victory was within reach. Yet shortly afterward, the Tet Offensive exposed the gap between official claims and battlefield reality, shaking public confidence. Araghchi suggested a similar disconnect on Friday (March 20). He criticised statements from US officials, including Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who recently claimed that American forces were achieving decisive success against Iran.&nbsp;According to Araghchi, events tell a different story. He referenced reports of a US F-35 fighter jet being damaged during operations over Iran, forcing an emergency landing. US Central Command acknowledged the incident, saying the aircraft landed safely and an investigation is underway.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-calls-father-s-death-tragedy-of-martyrdom-denies-iran-role-in-turkey-oman-attacks-1774022396444">Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei calls father’s death 'tragedy of martyrdom', denies Iran's role in Turkey, Oman attacks</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The media haven’t forgotten either; those briefings full of fantasy from the frontlines became infamous as the “Five O’Clock Follies.&quot;” Fast forward to today: same script, different stage; Hegseth steps up, and the message is still detached from reality.&mdash; Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) <a href="https://twitter.com/araghchi/status/2035002053270151294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Iranian sources, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, have circulated footage allegedly showing the aircraft being struck. If confirmed, it would mark a rare instance of the advanced jet being hit in combat. Araghchi also cited movements of US naval forces, claiming that aircraft carriers like the USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln had pulled back from forward positions. However, US reports indicate that the Ford was heading for repairs after a non-combat fire onboard, while redeployments may be strategic rather than retreat-driven.&nbsp;The conflict has already taken a toll. Reports indicate at least 13 US service members have been killed, with around 200 wounded. Iranian authorities, meanwhile, claim over 1,400 fatalities and thousands more injured. The Vietnam analogy carries historical weight. The US became deeply involved in Vietnam during the Cold War, escalating under Lyndon B Johnson after initial support started under Dwight D Eisenhower. Despite deploying more than 500,000 troops and carrying out extensive bombing campaigns, the US struggled to defeat North Vietnamese forces and their southern allies, the Viet Cong.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-houthis-ready-to-hit-saudi-us-in-battle-for-red-sea-1774026884794/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-houthis-ready-to-hit-saudi-us-in-battle-for-red-sea-1774026884794/embed</a>&nbsp;Although US and South Vietnamese forces repelled the Tet Offensive militarily, it revealed that the enemy remained far stronger than officials had suggested. Public opinion in the United States shifted dramatically, fueling widespread protests, with figures like Muhammad Ali among the prominent critics.&nbsp;The war ultimately ended with the US withdrawal under Richard Nixon in 1973, followed by the fall of Saigon in 1975. The conflict left more than 58,000 Americans dead, while Vietnamese casualties ran into the millions. By invoking Vietnam, Araghchi is signaling that prolonged conflict, rising losses, and overly optimistic official messaging could lead to a similar erosion of credibility for US leadership today.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iran compares US war narrative to Vietnam, says ‘same script, different stage’ amid escalating conflict

Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s foreign minister, has drawn a sharp comparison between the current US-Iran conflict and the Vietnam War, warning that official American narratives may not reflect realities on the ground. In a series of posts, Araghchi invoked a well-known episode from the Vietnam era, the “Five O’Clock Follies,” the daily US military briefings in Saigon that painted an overly optimistic picture despite mounting casualties and setbacks. He pointed to how William Westmoreland, who led US forces in Vietnam, reassured Americans in 1967 that victory was within reach. Yet shortly afterward, the Tet Offensive exposed the gap between official claims and battlefield reality, shaking public confidence. Araghchi suggested a similar disconnect on Friday (March 20). He criticised statements from US officials, including Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who recently claimed that American forces were achieving decisive success against Iran. According to Araghchi, events tell a different story. He referenced reports of a US F-35 fighter jet being damaged during operations over Iran, forcing an emergency landing. US Central Command acknowledged the incident, saying the aircraft landed safely and an investigation is underway. Also Read: Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei calls father’s death 'tragedy of martyrdom', denies Iran's role in Turkey, Oman attacks

Iran warns that the US may be repeating Vietnam-era mistakes, citing gaps between official claims and battlefield realities in the ongoing conflict

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday (Feb 06) stated that the talks with the United States took place in a positive atmosphere and that the two sides agreed to conduct further negotiations. He said the scope of talks remained on the Nuclear issue and did not discuss any other issue with the Americans.&nbsp;"In a very positive atmosphere, our arguments were exchanged, and the views of the other side were shared with us," Araghchi told Iranian state TV, adding that the two sides had "agreed to continue negotiations, but we will decide on the modalities and timing at a later date".&nbsp;These comments came after the United States and Iran concluded a high-stakes round of indirect talks in Muscat, Oman. The discussion marked a significant easing in friction between both countries after tensions sharply escalated following US and Israeli military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June 2025.&nbsp;During the period of heightened tensions, US President Donald Trump issued repeated threats of military strikes on Tehran, citing human rights violations after the recent crackdown on anti-regime protests in Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/posed-as-delivery-person-shot-twice-fresh-details-on-russian-general-s-attacker-lieutenant-general-vladimir-alexeyev-1770385856154">‘Posed as delivery person, shot twice’: Fresh details on Russian general’s attacker</a>&nbsp;Araghchi, who led the talks with Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, said that both sides reached an agreement on the continuation of negotiations, while the decision on the date and location of the next session will be taken in the coming days.&nbsp;He declared that talks are now at "the stage of building trust, and today’s talks were positive", with Tehran conveying its concern, worries and interest to the other side, and it was a good start."&nbsp;Oman, which acted as mediator for talks between Tehran and Washington, said "it was useful to clarify both Iranian and American thinking and identify areas of possible progress.&nbsp;"Very serious talks mediating between Iran and the US in Muscat today. It was useful to clarify both Iranian and American thinking and identify areas for possible progress. We aim to reconvene in due course, with the results to be considered carefully in Tehran and Washington," Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said in a post on X.

Araghchi, who led the talks with Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, said that both sides reached an agreement on the continuation of negotiations, while the decision on the date and location of the next session will be taken in the coming days.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday (Feb 06) stated that the talks with the United States took place in a positive atmosphere and that the two sides agreed to conduct further negotiations. He said the scope of talks remained on the Nuclear issue and did not discuss any other issue with the Americans. "In a very positive atmosphere, our arguments were exchanged, and the views of the other side were shared with us," Araghchi told Iranian state TV, adding that the two sides had "agreed to continue negotiations, but we will decide on the modalities and timing at a later date". These comments came after the United States and Iran concluded a high-stakes round of indirect talks in Muscat, Oman. The discussion marked a significant easing in friction between both countries after tensions sharply escalated following US and Israeli military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June 2025. During the period of heightened tensions, US President Donald Trump issued repeated threats of military strikes on Tehran, citing human rights violations after the recent crackdown on anti-regime protests in Iran. Also Read: ‘Posed as delivery person, shot twice’: Fresh details on Russian general’s attacker Araghchi, who led the talks with Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, said that both sides reached an agreement on the continuation of negotiations, while the decision on the date and location of the next session will be taken in the coming days. He declared that talks are now at "the stage of building trust, and today’s talks were positive", with Tehran conveying its concern, worries and interest to the other side, and it was a good start." Oman, which acted as mediator for talks between Tehran and Washington, said "it was useful to clarify both Iranian and American thinking and identify areas of possible progress. "Very serious talks mediating between Iran and the US in Muscat today. It was useful to clarify both Iranian and American thinking and identify areas for possible progress. We aim to reconvene in due course, with the results to be considered carefully in Tehran and Washington," Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said in a post on X.

Araghchi, who led the talks with Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, said that both sides reached an agreement on the continuation of negotiations, while the decision on the date and location of the next session will be taken in the coming days.

'A good start': Iran’s foreign minister cautiously optimistic after high-stakes talks with US in Oman

Iran on Wednesday (Jan 28) hit back at US President Donald Trump, warning that its armed forces have their "fingers on the trigger" and will respond "like never before" if the United States launches military strikes. The message came hours after Trump threatened "major destruction" and said a US naval armada was moving toward Iran at speed.<h2>Don't 'provoke' us: Iran</h2>Taking to X, Iran's foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi warned Trump that Iran's troops were ready to retaliate, if needed. "Our brave Armed Forces are prepared – with their fingers on the trigger – to immediately and powerfully respond to ANY aggression against our beloved land, air, and sea," he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-very-disappointing-trump-s-top-aide-attacks-eu-over-mother-of-all-deals-with-india-1769648927238">‘Very disappointing’: Trump’s top aide attacks EU over ‘Mother of all deals’ with India</a><h2>Trump’s threat</h2>Writing on Truth Social earlier in the day, Trump had said a "massive Armada" led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln was heading toward Iranian waters."It is moving quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose," he wrote. Comparing the fleet to the one that carried out Operation Absolute Resolve, which ended with the capture of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, he added, "Like with Venezuela, it is ready, willing, and able to rapidly fulfil its mission, with speed and violence, if necessary".Trump urged Tehran to abandon its nuclear programme and return to negotiations. "Hopefully Iran will quickly 'Come to the Table' and negotiate a fair and equitable deal – NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS – one that is good for all parties.""Time is running out, it is truly of the essence!" he warned. "As I told Iran once before, MAKE A DEAL! They didn't, and there was 'Operation Midnight Hammer,' a major destruction of Iran. The next attack will be far worse! Don't make that happen again."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-baramati-to-milan-learjet-45-s-deadly-history-after-ajit-pawar-s-death-in-pics-1769579527651">From Baramati to Milan: Learjet 45's deadly history in spotlight after Ajit Pawar's death | In pics</a><h2>Iran’s response</h2>Tehran did not take long to reply. Araghchi said Iran was prepared to retaliate and that the nation's troops have "their fingers on the trigger". However, he added that Iran was open to a "fair and equitable nuclear deal" but only on "equal footing, and free from coercion, threats, and intimidation". He insisted Iran had never sought nuclear weapons and that such arms had "no place" in its security doctrine."Such weapons have no place in our security calculations, and we have NEVER sought to acquire them."Iran's mission to the United Nations later echoed that line, saying the country stood ready for dialogue, but would respond forcefully to any military action. Tehran will treat any US strike "as an all-out war against us," a senior Iranian official said.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-us-president-trump-says-iran-will-now-negotiate-a-fair-and-equitable-deal-1769613693066/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-us-president-trump-says-iran-will-now-negotiate-a-fair-and-equitable-deal-1769613693066/embed</a>&nbsp;

Iran warned the US that its forces have “fingers on the trigger” and will respond “like never before” if attacked, after Donald Trump threatened “major destruction” and said a US naval armada was heading toward Iran. Tehran said it is open to talks, but only without threats or coercion.

Iran on Wednesday (Jan 28) hit back at US President Donald Trump, warning that its armed forces have their "fingers on the trigger" and will respond "like never before" if the United States launches military strikes. The message came hours after Trump threatened "major destruction" and said a US naval armada was moving toward Iran at speed. Don't 'provoke' us: Iran Taking to X, Iran's foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi warned Trump that Iran's troops were ready to retaliate, if needed. "Our brave Armed Forces are prepared – with their fingers on the trigger – to immediately and powerfully respond to ANY aggression against our beloved land, air, and sea," he said. Also read | ‘Very disappointing’: Trump’s top aide attacks EU over ‘Mother of all deals’ with India Trump’s threat Writing on Truth Social earlier in the day, Trump had said a "massive Armada" led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln was heading toward Iranian waters. "It is moving quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose," he wrote. Comparing the fleet to the one that carried out Operation Absolute Resolve, which ended with the capture of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, he added, "Like with Venezuela, it is ready, willing, and able to rapidly fulfil its mission, with speed and violence, if necessary". Trump urged Tehran to abandon its nuclear programme and return to negotiations. "Hopefully Iran will quickly 'Come to the Table' and negotiate a fair and equitable deal – NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS – one that is good for all parties." "Time is running out, it is truly of the essence!" he warned. "As I told Iran once before, MAKE A DEAL! They didn't, and there was 'Operation Midnight Hammer,' a major destruction of Iran. The next attack will be far worse! Don't make that happen again." Also read | From Baramati to Milan: Learjet 45's deadly history in spotlight after Ajit Pawar's death | In pics Iran’s response Tehran did not take long to reply. Araghchi said Iran was prepared to retaliate and that the nation's troops have "their fingers on the trigger". However, he added that Iran was open to a "fair and equitable nuclear deal" but only on "equal footing, and free from coercion, threats, and intimidation". He insisted Iran had never sought nuclear weapons and that such arms had "no place" in its security doctrine. "Such weapons have no place in our security calculations, and we have NEVER sought to acquire them." Iran's mission to the United Nations later echoed that line, saying the country stood ready for dialogue, but would respond forcefully to any military action. Tehran will treat any US strike "as an all-out war against us," a senior Iranian official said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-us-president-trump-says-iran-will-now-negotiate-a-fair-and-equitable-deal-1769613693066/embed

Iran warned the US that its forces have “fingers on the trigger” and will respond “like never before” if attacked, after Donald Trump threatened “major destruction” and said a US naval armada was heading toward Iran. Tehran said it is open to talks, but only without threats or coercion.

Iran warns US its forces have ‘fingers on the trigger’ as Trump threatens Tehran with 'major destruction'

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Sunday that Tehran is no longer enriching uranium at any site in the country. The statement is being seen as a signal to the West that Iran is open to potential negotiations over its nuclear programme, and the first most direct response yet from the Iranian government since the bombing of its enrichment sites by Israel and the United States during a 12-day war in June. “There is no undeclared nuclear enrichment in Iran. All of our facilities are under the safeguards and monitoring” of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Araghchi said. &nbsp;“There is no enrichment right now because our facilities—our enrichment facilities—have been attacked.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asylum-system-is-broken-illegal-migration-tearing-our-country-apart-says-home-secretary-1763305068332">Asylum system is broken, illegal migration ‘tearing our country apart’, says home secretary</a>&nbsp;Replying to a question on the possible resumption of negotiations with the US and others, Araghchi said Iran’s message on the subject is very clear. “Iran’s right for enrichment, for peaceful use of nuclear technology, including enrichment, is undeniable. We have this right, and we continue to exercise that, and we hope that the international community, including the United States, recognize our rights and understand that this is an inalienable right of Iran. And we would never give up our rights,” the foreign minister said.&nbsp;Mohammad Eslami, the head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, said that Tehran had been threatened over potentially accessing the bombed enrichment sites at Fordo, Isfahan, and Natanz.“Our security situation hasn’t yet changed. If you watch the news, you see that every day we are being threatened with another attack,” Eslami said. “Every day we are told if you touch anything, you’ll be attacked.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-ceo-stopped-by-fbi-slams-rising-hostility-towards-immigrants-in-us-1763238517055">Indian-origin CEO stopped by FBI, slams rising hostility towards immigrants in US</a>&nbsp;Iran had been enriching uranium up to 60% purity after US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from Tehran’s 2015 nuclear deal with world powers in 2018.&nbsp;&nbsp;The IAEA’s Board of Governors is set to meet this week and may vote on a new resolution targeting Iran over its failure to cooperate fully with the agency.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slashes-tariffs-on-groceries-fearing-us-voters-ire-over-inflation-cheers-indian-exporters-1763234307740">Trump rolls back tariffs on groceries fearing US voters’ ire over inflation; Indian exporters cheer</a>&nbsp;Araghchi told journalists that the US administration’s approach does not suggest they are ready for “equal, fair negotiations to reach mutual interests.”“What we have seen from the Americans so far has actually been an effort to dictate their demands, which are maximalist and excessive. We see no chance for dialogue in the face of such demands.”&nbsp;He was speaking during a summit titled ‘International Law Under Assault: Aggression and Self-Defense,’ organised by Iran’s Institute for Political and International Studies, affiliated with the country’s foreign ministry.&nbsp;WATCH: Pakistan: Controversial article about ex-PM Imran Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-controversial-article-about-ex-pm-imran-khan-s-wife-bushra-bibi-1763303021495/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-controversial-article-about-ex-pm-imran-khan-s-wife-bushra-bibi-1763303021495/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran had been enriching uranium up to 60% purity after US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the 2015 nuclear deal. Araghchi said that the US administration’s approach does not suggest they are ready for “equal, fair negotiations to reach mutual interests.”

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Sunday that Tehran is no longer enriching uranium at any site in the country. The statement is being seen as a signal to the West that Iran is open to potential negotiations over its nuclear programme, and the first most direct response yet from the Iranian government since the bombing of its enrichment sites by Israel and the United States during a 12-day war in June. “There is no undeclared nuclear enrichment in Iran. All of our facilities are under the safeguards and monitoring” of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Araghchi said. “There is no enrichment right now because our facilities—our enrichment facilities—have been attacked.” Also Read: Asylum system is broken, illegal migration ‘tearing our country apart’, says home secretary Replying to a question on the possible resumption of negotiations with the US and others, Araghchi said Iran’s message on the subject is very clear. “Iran’s right for enrichment, for peaceful use of nuclear technology, including enrichment, is undeniable. We have this right, and we continue to exercise that, and we hope that the international community, including the United States, recognize our rights and understand that this is an inalienable right of Iran. And we would never give up our rights,” the foreign minister said. Mohammad Eslami, the head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, said that Tehran had been threatened over potentially accessing the bombed enrichment sites at Fordo, Isfahan, and Natanz. “Our security situation hasn’t yet changed. If you watch the news, you see that every day we are being threatened with another attack,” Eslami said. “Every day we are told if you touch anything, you’ll be attacked.” Also Read: Indian-origin CEO stopped by FBI, slams rising hostility towards immigrants in US Iran had been enriching uranium up to 60% purity after US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from Tehran’s 2015 nuclear deal with world powers in 2018. The IAEA’s Board of Governors is set to meet this week and may vote on a new resolution targeting Iran over its failure to cooperate fully with the agency. Also Read: Trump rolls back tariffs on groceries fearing US voters’ ire over inflation; Indian exporters cheer Araghchi told journalists that the US administration’s approach does not suggest they are ready for “equal, fair negotiations to reach mutual interests.” “What we have seen from the Americans so far has actually been an effort to dictate their demands, which are maximalist and excessive. We see no chance for dialogue in the face of such demands.” He was speaking during a summit titled ‘International Law Under Assault: Aggression and Self-Defense,’ organised by Iran’s Institute for Political and International Studies, affiliated with the country’s foreign ministry. WATCH: Pakistan: Controversial article about ex-PM Imran Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-controversial-article-about-ex-pm-imran-khan-s-wife-bushra-bibi-1763303021495/embed

Iran had been enriching uranium up to 60% purity after US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the 2015 nuclear deal. Araghchi said that the US administration’s approach does not suggest they are ready for “equal, fair negotiations to reach mutual interests.”

Iran no longer enriching uranium at any site in the country, says foreign minister Abbas Aragchi

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi has said that Tehran is ready for a real and lasting agreement that includes strict monitoring and limits on its domestic uranium enrichment in exchange for the lifting of sanctions. In an opinion piece Aragchi wrote for the Guardian on Sunday, Iran’s foreign minister urged the European nations to change course and abandon their plan to snapback a wide array of UN sanctions at the end of the month and warned of “unprecedentedly destructive” consequences otherwise. “If this short opportunity to change course is missed, it will have consequences that could be unprecedentedly destructive for the region and beyond,” Aragchi warned in his piece titled, “A message from Tehran to Britain, France and Germany: in your own interests, you should change course.”&nbsp;Tehran is still hoping that Europeans can be persuaded to defer snapping back sanctions at the UN Security Council while arguing that Europe will not benefit from such a move since it will only put the US in the driving seat on negotiating any new nuclear deal and leave Europe isolated. However, conflicting signals are emerging from within Iran.&nbsp;The minister said that he had made progress in recent talks with the UN weapons inspectors on their terms for their return to Iran’s bombed nuclear sites, one of the preconditions set by Europe for deferring the snapback.&nbsp;However, the Iranian parliament is still discussing a bill that would require Iran to leave the nuclear non-proliferation treaty if UN sanctions were restored, which would shut off all independent access to its nuclear sites.&nbsp;<h2>‘European leaders making a huge mistake if they think…’</h2>&nbsp;Araghchi, who met with the EU foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, in Doha last Thursday, claims European leaders are making a huge mistake if they think that by being tough with Iran, the US President Donald Trump will stop viewing them as secondary actors and give them a place on the world stage.The return of UN sanctions “will only exclude the three countries from future diplomatic processes, with widespread negative consequences for the whole of Europe in terms of its credibility and global standing,” he wrote.&nbsp;<h2>‘Trump views European countries as secondary players’</h2>&nbsp;“President Trump has made it clear that he views the three European countries as secondary players, and this is evident in the exclusion of Europe from issues that are vital to its future, including the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Washington’s message is clear: to gain a foothold, the three countries must demonstrate unwavering loyalty.”“Israel may present itself as capable of fighting on behalf of the west, but as we saw in June, the truth is that Iran’s powerful armed forces are once again ready and capable of defeating Israel to the point where it will be forced to turn to ‘Grandpa’ for salvation,” Aragchi wrote, referring to Israel’s dependence on the US for military hardware.&nbsp;WATCH: Undersea cables cut in the Red Sea, disrupting internet access in Asia and the Middle East<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/undersea-cables-cut-in-the-red-sea-disrupting-internet-access-in-asia-and-the-middle-east-1757269237544/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/undersea-cables-cut-in-the-red-sea-disrupting-internet-access-in-asia-and-the-middle-east-1757269237544/embed</a>&nbsp;

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi said European nations should engage constructively and not facilitate ‘America’s excesses’ and claimed European leaders are making a mistake if they think Trump will stop viewing them as secondary actors and give them a place on the world stage.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi has said that Tehran is ready for a real and lasting agreement that includes strict monitoring and limits on its domestic uranium enrichment in exchange for the lifting of sanctions. In an opinion piece Aragchi wrote for the Guardian on Sunday, Iran’s foreign minister urged the European nations to change course and abandon their plan to snapback a wide array of UN sanctions at the end of the month and warned of “unprecedentedly destructive” consequences otherwise. “If this short opportunity to change course is missed, it will have consequences that could be unprecedentedly destructive for the region and beyond,” Aragchi warned in his piece titled, “A message from Tehran to Britain, France and Germany: in your own interests, you should change course.” Tehran is still hoping that Europeans can be persuaded to defer snapping back sanctions at the UN Security Council while arguing that Europe will not benefit from such a move since it will only put the US in the driving seat on negotiating any new nuclear deal and leave Europe isolated. However, conflicting signals are emerging from within Iran. The minister said that he had made progress in recent talks with the UN weapons inspectors on their terms for their return to Iran’s bombed nuclear sites, one of the preconditions set by Europe for deferring the snapback. However, the Iranian parliament is still discussing a bill that would require Iran to leave the nuclear non-proliferation treaty if UN sanctions were restored, which would shut off all independent access to its nuclear sites. ‘European leaders making a huge mistake if they think…’ Araghchi, who met with the EU foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, in Doha last Thursday, claims European leaders are making a huge mistake if they think that by being tough with Iran, the US President Donald Trump will stop viewing them as secondary actors and give them a place on the world stage. The return of UN sanctions “will only exclude the three countries from future diplomatic processes, with widespread negative consequences for the whole of Europe in terms of its credibility and global standing,” he wrote. ‘Trump views European countries as secondary players’ “President Trump has made it clear that he views the three European countries as secondary players, and this is evident in the exclusion of Europe from issues that are vital to its future, including the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Washington’s message is clear: to gain a foothold, the three countries must demonstrate unwavering loyalty.” “Israel may present itself as capable of fighting on behalf of the west, but as we saw in June, the truth is that Iran’s powerful armed forces are once again ready and capable of defeating Israel to the point where it will be forced to turn to ‘Grandpa’ for salvation,” Aragchi wrote, referring to Israel’s dependence on the US for military hardware. WATCH: Undersea cables cut in the Red Sea, disrupting internet access in Asia and the Middle East https://www.wionews.com/videos/undersea-cables-cut-in-the-red-sea-disrupting-internet-access-in-asia-and-the-middle-east-1757269237544/embed

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi said European nations should engage constructively and not facilitate ‘America’s excesses’ and claimed European leaders are making a mistake if they think Trump will stop viewing them as secondary actors and give them a place on the world stage.

Iran to allow nuclear monitoring if sanctions are lifted, says foreign minister Araghchi

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on Wednesday that Western governments falsely portray sanctions as a ‘bloodless alternative to war’. He accused the US of committing crimes against humanity. Citing a Lancet study, he said the US sanctions have unilaterally killed 500,000 people every year since 1970. He called the Western sanctions 'inhumane' and called for a collective effort between the sanctioned nations for a unified response.“Western regimes have long claimed that sanctions are a bloodless alternative to war. Reality check: New study by @TheLancet says unilateral sanctions, particularly by the US, may be as lethal as war. 500+k lives claimed annually since 1970s, mostly children and the elderly,” said Seyed Abbas Araghchi.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Western regimes have long claimed that sanctions are a bloodless alternative to war. Reality check: New study by <a href="https://twitter.com/TheLancet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheLancet</a> says unilateral sanctions, particularly by the US, may be as lethal as war. 500+k lives claimed annually since 1970s, mostly children and the elderly.… <a href="https://t.co/02tIQiAFA5">pic.twitter.com/02tIQiAFA5</a>&mdash; Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) <a href="https://twitter.com/araghchi/status/1955485536962957736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Lancet study, funded by the Centre for Economic and Policy Research, conducted cross-national panel data analysis between age-specific mortality rates and 152 countries sanctioned between 1971 and 2021, applying a wide range of methods such as observational data, entropy balancing, Granger causality, event-study representations, and instrumental variables to form a causal relationship. The findings suggest that sanctions have similar impacts to war. It also suggests rethinking the foreign policy tools, highlighting the importance of exercising restraint in their use and seriously considering efforts to reform their design.Use of Economic sanctions has grown substantially, according to the Global Sanctions Database 25 per cent of all countries are subjected to sanctions either by the US or the EU or the UN between 2010-22, as compared to 8 per cent of 1970. As of August 2025, the US or the EU or the UN have sanctions over Brazil, Cuba, Iran, Venezuela, Russia and its oil buyers such as India and China, as well as Syria and Libya to some extent are under either sanctions or a heavy tariff burden. There are other kinds like the FATF blacklist, Shadow Fleet, Terrorism, and Human rights related sanctions, which encompass a complex web of global sanctions.

Iran slams US sanctions as ‘crimes against humanity’,  citing a Lancet Study Seyed Abbas Araghchi accused Western nations' sanction tactics of claiming countless lives every year since 1970. 

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on Wednesday that Western governments falsely portray sanctions as a ‘bloodless alternative to war’. He accused the US of committing crimes against humanity. Citing a Lancet study, he said the US sanctions have unilaterally killed 500,000 people every year since 1970. He called the Western sanctions 'inhumane' and called for a collective effort between the sanctioned nations for a unified response. “Western regimes have long claimed that sanctions are a bloodless alternative to war. Reality check: New study by @TheLancet says unilateral sanctions, particularly by the US, may be as lethal as war. 500+k lives claimed annually since 1970s, mostly children and the elderly,” said Seyed Abbas Araghchi.

Iran slams US sanctions as ‘crimes against humanity’, &nbsp;citing a Lancet study Seyed Abbas Araghchi accused Western nations' sanction tactics of claiming countless lives every year since 1970.&nbsp;

'As deadly as war’: Iran says US sanctions kill 500,000 people a year, mostly children

Iran's deputy foreign minister said on Sunday that Britain's ambassador to Tehran, Rob Macaire, was arrested as a foreigner at "an illegal gathering" but was freed soon after being identified.

Iran's deputy foreign minister said on Sunday that Britain's ambassador to Tehran, Rob Macaire, was arrested as a foreigner at "an illegal gathering" but was freed soon after being identified. "He wasn't detained, but arrested as unknown foreigner in an illegal gathering," Seyed Abbas Araghchi tweeted, adding Macaire was released 15 minutes after he called the British diplomat to confirm his identity. 2/2 Detained half an hour after leaving the area. Arresting diplomats is of course illegal, in all countries. See comments by Foreign Secretary @DominicRaab. https://t.co/djpr99iSwI — Rob Macaire (@HMATehran) January 12, 2020 × Meanwhile, Macaire denied that he took part in a demonstration that broke out at a memorial for the 176 people killed when a plane was shot down. Students held a gathering at Tehran's Amir Kabir University on Saturday evening to honour those killed hours after Iran admitted the Ukrainian airliner was downed by mistake. Iran's Mehr news agency said the ambassador, Rob Macaire, was arrested for his alleged "involvement in provoking suspicious acts" at the gathering in front of the university. "Can confirm I wasn't taking part in any demonstrations! Went to an event advertised as a vigil for victims of #PS752 tragedy," Macaire said on Twitter, adding he had been detained half an hour after leaving the area. He wasn't detained, but arrested as unknown foreigner in an illegal gathering. When police informed me a man's arrested who claims to be UK Amb, I said IMPOSSIBLE! only after my phone conversation w him I identified, out of big surprise, that it's him. 15 min later he was free. pic.twitter.com/VjuZxN1oTN — Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) January 12, 2020 × "Normal to want to pay respects -- some of victims were British. I left after 5 mins, when some started chanting," he said. "Arresting diplomats is of course illegal, in all countries," he added. (With inputs from AFP)

Iran says UK envoy Macaire arrested but freed soon after identified