Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu of trying to drag the US into disaster regarding tensions in the Middle East. He highlighted Israel’s military actions in Gaza and retaliatory strikes against Houthi rebels, which he argues serve Netanyahu’s interests, saying they benefit neither the US nor its people. Nuclear talks between the US and Iran have been postponed, as discussions hint at the need for a more diplomatic approach to resolving tensions.
In a significant escalation of tensions, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, claiming he is leading the United States towards a potential “disaster” in the Middle East. This allegation comes amidst rising tensions between Iran and Israel, particularly regarding ongoing conflicts in Gaza and the activities of Houthi rebels in the region. Araghchi’s comments reflect Iran’s frustration with what they perceive as inappropriate US support for Israel’s military actions.
During a press briefing on Monday, Araghchi asserted, “Netanyahu is directly MEDDLING within the US Government to DRAG it into another DISASTER in our region.” He cautioned against any miscalculations regarding Iran, emphasizing that any aggression would have severe consequences. Araghchi accused Netanyahu of trying to influence US foreign policy, specifically how President Donald Trump approaches diplomacy with Iran.
His remarks also addressed US backing for Israel amid its offensive in Gaza against Hamas. He criticized the US for retaliatory strikes against Houthi forces in Yemen, who have purportedly targeted Israel and shipping routes in the Red Sea during the conflict. “LETHAL support for Netanyahu’s Genocide in Gaza and waging WAR on behalf of Netanyahu in Yemen have achieved NOTHING for the American people,” Araghchi declared, adding that these actions have further complicated the already strained regional dynamics.
The backdrop of these accusations includes Netanyahu’s recent promises to hold Iran accountable following a Houthi missile strike that reportedly landed near Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport. Although Tehran denied involvement in this incident, the tension remains high.
Additionally, Araghchi’s statements followed the postponement of nuclear talks between the US and Iran that were scheduled for Saturday. Talks had been ongoing since April, marking a rare opportunity for diplomatic engagement after the US withdrew from the nuclear deal in 2018 during Trump’s presidency. Despite the delay, Araghchi remains hopeful, insisting that negotiations could lead to a resolution if the US adopts more rational stances.
Netanyahu has been vocal about the need for a comprehensive dismantling of Iran’s nuclear program, asserting that any agreement must eliminate Iran’s capacity to enrich uranium and develop ballistic missiles. In response, Trump recently expressed conditional openness to discussion about a civilian nuclear program for Iran, stating that he would consider arguments for its potential benefits.
In conversations with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, Araghchi reiterated Iran’s readiness to negotiate terms that would alleviate fears surrounding their nuclear capabilities, suggesting that reaching an agreement is entirely feasible. He remarked, “If the goal was for Iran to not have a nuclear weapon, a deal is achievable and there is only ONE PATH to achieve it: DIPLOMACY based on MUTUAL RESPECT and MUTUAL INTERESTS.”
As diplomatic tensions continue to simmer, the international community watches closely, hoping for a de-escalation of hostilities and a return to productive dialogue.
In summary, the rhetoric surrounding the US-Iran relationship is growing increasingly tense, with Iranian officials accusing Netanyahu of leading the United States into precarious waters. The ongoing conflict in Gaza and the situation with the Houthis further complicate these dynamics. As both nations stand at a crossroads regarding nuclear talks, Araghchi’s emphasis on diplomacy may hold the key to mitigating future conflicts and enhancing cooperation.
Original Source: www.france24.com
