Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has warned that any attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities by the United States or Israel would result in an “all-out war” in the region.
In an interview with Al Jazeera Arabic during his visit to Qatar, Mr Araghchi stated that a military strike on Iranian nuclear sites would be “one of the biggest historical mistakes the US could make.”
“Iran will respond immediately and decisively to any attack,” he said, stressing that such an action would trigger a wider conflict across the Middle East.
The remarks come amid growing concerns in Tehran that US President Donald Trump might embolden Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to launch an attack on Iranian nuclear installations while simultaneously tightening sanctions on the country during his second term.
During his visit to Doha, Mr Araghchi held meetings with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, discussing key regional developments. He praised Qatar’s role in mediating a ceasefire in Gaza, expressing hope for further diplomatic resolutions.
The Iranian diplomat also met officials from Hamas and described their resilience in Gaza as a “victory,” despite the extensive destruction caused by Israel’s military offensive.
“Despite all the killings and destruction, the Palestinian people upheld their values and principles. I believe this stands as a victory,” he said.
Israel’s war on Gaza, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in the deaths of at least 47,460 Palestinians, primarily women and children, and left more than 111,580 wounded. Meanwhile, at least 1,139 people were killed in Israel on the first day of the Hamas-led attacks, with more than 200 individuals taken captive.
Regarding Syria, Mr Araghchi reiterated Tehran’s support for the formation of a government that includes all segments of Syrian society. He maintained that Iran’s goal is to ensure stability in Syria while preserving the country’s territorial integrity.
“We endorse any government chosen and supported by the Syrian people. We do not want Syria to become the epicentre of endless conflict or a safe haven for terrorists,” he said.
Iran has been a key ally of the Assad government since the Syrian conflict began in 2011, providing military and logistical support to sustain Damascus’ rule and maintain its influence in the region.
On the re-election of Mr Trump, the Iranian foreign minister remarked that US-Iran relations have been “full of hostility and mistrust.” He cited Washington’s withdrawal from the nuclear agreement and the assassination of IRGC commander Qassem Soleimani as key points of contention.
