In an interview with DD Indian on the sidelines of the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting in New Delhi on Friday, Araqchi thanked the Indian government for its warm hospitality and praised the organization of the summit, describing it as one of the best BRICS foreign ministers’ meetings.
He said the participants held numerous meetings and discussions on important issues related to the goals and principles of BRICS.
Araqchi also said he had the opportunity to explain Iran’s positions, particularly following the aggressive war imposed on the country by the US and Israeli regime.
He expressed appreciation for BRICS’ position condemning the war of aggression, which he said violated fundamental principles of international law and the United Nations Charter.
According to Araqchi, developments in West Asia occupied a major part of the BRICS discussions, and he stressed that diplomacy remains the best path forward for the region.
The Iranian foreign minister said there is no military solution and argued that the US should have realized this reality after testing Iran at least twice.
Washington cannot achieve its objectives through military action, Araqchi said, adding that diplomacy could produce different results.
The top Iranian diplomat said interactions had already begun, but noted that the process faced many difficulties, the most important being the “contradictory messages” coming from the Americans through different statements, interviews, and positions.
Addressing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and their impact on global supply chains, particularly energy supplies, Araqchi said Iran was not responsible for the situation because it did not initiate the war and was only defending itself.
He said Iran considers itself fully entitled to legitimate self-defense.
Araqchi further stated that, from Iran’s perspective, the Strait of Hormuz remains open, especially for friendly countries, adding that restrictions apply only to Iran’s enemies.
He explained that vessels belonging to friendly and other countries are only required to coordinate their passage with Iranian military forces to avoid potential obstacles and ensure safe transit.
According to the Iranian foreign minister, numerous ships had passed through the strait in recent days with the assistance of Iranian naval forces, and the process would continue.
He emphasized that the only solution is the complete end of the aggressive war, after which Iran would ensure safe passage for every vessel.