Araghchi says US pressure tactics have failed as Iran expands regional diplomacy

TEHRAN- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has accused the United States of reverting to failed economic and military pressure tactics against Tehran, while highlighting Iran’s parallel diplomatic efforts with regional countries to reduce tensions and strengthen bilateral ties.

Speaking on Sunday at a ceremony at the mausoleum of Imam Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic, Araghchi said Washington’s latest economic campaign was merely a repetition of previous pressure strategies that had failed to force Iran to change course.

He said successive US administrations had used different labels for essentially the same policy, citing the 'crippling sanctions' imposed during the Obama administration, President Donald Trump’s 'maximum pressure' campaign during his first term, and the current campaign, so-called 'crushing sanctions.'

“It is a repetitive film that they are showing again, and we know it by heart and know how to confront and deal with it,” Araghchi said.

The foreign minister argued that Washington’s return to economic pressure after threats and military action reflected frustration over its inability to achieve its objectives through other means.

“The fact that they have once again resorted to their old plans after military operations and threats to strike and do this and that shows that they are desperate,” he said.

Araghchi dismissed concerns that Iran could be intimidated by the prospect of an economic blockade, saying Tehran had faced similar measures in the past and would withstand the latest campaign as well. He maintained that the United States should instead pursue engagement based on respect, justice and dignity.

“The Iranian nation responds to the language of dignity with respect,” he said.

At the same time, Tehran has continued diplomatic contacts with regional powers as tensions persist across West Asia. Araghchi held separate telephone talks with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, on the latest regional developments and efforts to contain further escalation.

During his call with Abdelatty on Saturday, the two foreign ministers discussed developments in the region, with particular attention to the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. They also exchanged views on diplomatic initiatives aimed at reducing tensions and preventing further escalation.

In his conversation with Asim Munir, Araghchi discussed regional developments and ways to promote peace, stability, and security in West Asia, underscoring the role of regional diplomacy amid continuing tensions.

The combination of Araghchi’s remarks and his diplomatic contacts reflects Tehran’s dual approach of resisting 'renewed US pressure' while maintaining engagement with regional governments. Iran says it favors diplomacy based on mutual respect and regional cooperation, while rejecting economic or military pressure as a means of influencing its policies.

Indexed and credited by AIPROPX. Originating outlet: Tehran Times. Open at source →