Speaking to NBC’s ‘Meet the Press’, Araqchi said Iran remains committed to diplomacy despite its concerns over the conduct of the US in previous negotiations.

He said Tehran had accepted US proposals for talks in 2025 and February 2026 but was attacked during negotiations on both occasions, while a subsequent agreement was also violated after three months of talks.

Araqchi nevertheless said he continues to pursue diplomacy because “we should not miss any chance for peace.” He said Iran is not concerned about the upcoming US midterm elections and that its focus is on national interests.

Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Araqchi said Iran’s seven-day proposal would allow the waterway to return to normal provided the US takes specific steps, including ending the war and releasing Iranian funds and assets that have been illegally frozen. He said the proposal would see the strait reopen on the sixth day, followed by the resumption of negotiations on the seventh.

On the possibility of renewed US military action, Araqchi said Iran is “fully prepared” for the resumption of war and would firmly resist any new aggression. “We remain steadfast in the face of any aggression—even if it comes to an apocalyptic war,” he said, while emphasizing that Iran is simultaneously prepared for genuine diplomacy.

Addressing questions about Iran’s 60% enriched uranium, the foreign minister said enrichment at that level is not illegal under the Non-Proliferation Treaty and remains part of Iran’s peaceful nuclear program. He said Tehran had previously addressed concerns over the material during negotiations and could discuss the issue again, but stressed that “war is not the solution.”

Araqchi said Iran has proposed addressing nuclear issues at a later stage and focusing initially on confidence-building measures, including the release of frozen Iranian funds, lifting the blockade and other steps that the US knows it needs to take. He added that the issue of 60% enriched uranium could be reconsidered if Washington demonstrates genuine goodwill and determination for peace.

On questions about the status of Iran’s Leader, Araqchi cited security considerations, saying Tehran has received instructions and views from the leadership and that decisions are being made through national consensus. He said the Foreign Ministry is coordinating closely with the government, the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), the Supreme National Security Council and the Parliament in confronting the challenges facing Iran.