Iranian officials have issued a stern warning that they will hold the United States accountable for any potential Israeli strikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities, amid reports of Israel preparing for possible preemptive attacks. The development comes as Washington and Tehran prepare for their fifth round of nuclear negotiations, scheduled to take place in Rome this Friday.
In a formal communication to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that Iran would respond decisively to any threats or unlawful actions by Israel. He called upon the international community to implement preventive measures against ongoing Israeli threats, warning that Iran would be compelled to take special defensive measures to protect its nuclear installations and materials if such threats persist.
The warning follows a CNN report earlier this week suggesting that Israel is actively preparing for potential strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. The situation is particularly delicate as Israel appears increasingly willing to act independently, showing little concern for pressure from Western allies regarding its ongoing military operations on multiple fronts.
Reuters reported that Araghchi specifically indicated the United States would be considered a “participant” in any Israeli attack. The Iranian diplomat added that Tehran would need to adopt special protective measures for its nuclear facilities if threats continue, with subsequent notification to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has expressed skepticism about the ongoing nuclear talks with the Trump administration, describing recent U.S. demands for complete cessation of enrichment as “excessive and outrageous.” This reaction came following reports suggesting Iran might be willing to halt enrichment entirely in exchange for sanctions relief.
The Iranian parliament has maintained its position on the peaceful nature of the country’s nuclear program. According to the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), legislators have reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) while asserting their determination to preserve Iran’s right to nuclear technology.
The situation highlights the complex dynamics between the three nations, with Israel viewing any potential U.S.-Iran nuclear deal as a possible deception strategy by Tehran to continue covert nuclear weapons development. This perspective persists despite ongoing diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran to reach a new agreement.
The current tensions exist against a backdrop of longstanding Israeli concerns about Iran’s nuclear capabilities, with some hawkish officials in both Israel and the U.S. Congress maintaining their skepticism about Iran’s intentions. These voices have consistently warned about Iran’s nuclear ambitions since the 1990s, though their predictions of imminent weapons development have yet to materialize.
Araghchi emphasized that Iran’s response to any threats would be proportionate to the preventive measures taken by international bodies in accordance with their statutory duties and obligations. This statement suggests a measured approach while still maintaining a firm stance on defending Iranian interests.
The situation remains delicate as the United States attempts to balance its diplomatic efforts with Iran against its traditional alliance with Israel, while Iran continues to assert its right to peaceful nuclear technology while facing persistent threats from Israel and maintaining its defensive posture.