INTERNATIONAL — February 23, 2026

Iran FM Araghchi: Tehran has full right to defend itself if US attacks

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned of retaliation against US interests in case of attack but highlighted ongoing diplomatic prospects, including potential Geneva talks. Reports note US military buildup in the region amid nuclear concerns.

The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Hasht-e Subh — corroborated by RTA2 min read

Iran FM Araghchi: Tehran has full right to defend itself if US attacks
Image courtesy Hasht-e Subh

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran has the "full right" to defend itself in the event of any US attack, while emphasizing that a diplomatic solution remains possible between the two countries.

In a Sunday night interview with CBS on February 22, Araghchi said that if the US attacks Iran, Tehran would target US interests in the region. He added that there is a good chance for a political solution, with the two sides likely to meet again in Geneva on Thursday to work on details of a potential agreement.

Reports indicate that following the latest round of talks in Geneva, Iran is preparing a draft proposal to avert military action and aims to produce an acceptable agreement text.

Axios, citing a senior US official, reported that if Tehran submits its proposal within the next 48 hours, Washington is prepared to begin detailed negotiations later this week.

These remarks come amid recent US deployments of two aircraft carriers and additional military equipment to the Middle East, along with strengthened air defense systems in the region.

Western countries have voiced concerns over Iran's nuclear program, suspecting it aims to develop nuclear weapons, which Tehran denies, insisting uranium enrichment is for non-military purposes.

Read the original reporting at Hasht-e Subh

Reliability assessment

Key facts corroborated by two outlets reporting a direct on-record statement by named official Abbas Araghchi in a specific CBS interview on February 22, with concrete details including retaliation warning and diplomatic prospects; attributable and verifiable claim of 'official said X'.

The source language reads straight.

Across the newsrooms

Filed by 2 outlets

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InternationalIran, Abbas Araghchi, United States, Geneva talks, nuclear program

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