Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said, “His country will deal with the new American government based on its policies.”
Araqchi said, “Iran is waiting for the new American government to announce its policy and appoint its men, and decisions will be made at high levels regarding how to deal with it.”
He added: “We will act towards the new American government based on its policies, and what it implements in its work matters to us. The people who have been appointed now have extremist characteristics in support of the Zionist entity.”
Iranian Member of Parliament, Ahmed Naderi, called for “amending his country’s nuclear and military doctrines, noting the necessity of conducting tests on the nuclear bomb to ensure the balance of power in the region.”
Naderi said: “I think we must test the nuclear bomb, and we have no other choice, because the balance in the region is unequal.”
He added, “Military balance in the Middle East region will not be achieved until both Iran and Israel possess weapons of equal power.”
He said: “Israel possesses an unknown number of nuclear warheads that it can launch at any moment to any place it wants, and therefore there is no reason for us to remain without a weapon similar in power, so we must move towards developing it… This is not only my opinion, it is also the opinion of Iranian people.”
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What are the implications of Iran’s wait-and-see approach toward the new U.S. administration’s foreign policy?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Iranian Foreign Affairs Expert
Editor: Good evening, and thank you for joining us today. We’re fortunate to have Dr. Leila Asgar, a prominent expert in Iranian foreign policy, with us to discuss the recent statements from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi regarding the new American administration. Dr. Asgar, welcome.
Dr. Asgar: Thank you for having me. I’m glad to be here to discuss this important topic.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Araqchi mentioned that Iran will wait for the new American government to announce its policies before making decisions on how to engage with them. What does this statement reflect about Iran’s current diplomatic strategy?
Dr. Asgar: Araqchi’s statement indicates a strategic patience on the part of Iran. They are looking to gauge the intentions of the new administration before taking any definitive action. This reflects a broader approach in Iranian diplomacy where policy-making is largely conditioned by the behavior of global powers, especially the U.S. Understanding the incoming administration’s stance will be crucial for Iran as it navigates potential negotiations or conflicts.
Editor: That’s insightful. Understanding policy is indeed key in international relations. With the previous administration’s approach leading to heightened tensions, how might the dynamics change with a new U.S. government?
Dr. Asgar: It’s likely that we will see a more nuanced approach, particularly if the new government signals a willingness to re-engage in dialogues resembling the JCPOA negotiations. If they demonstrate a commitment to diplomacy rather than maximum pressure tactics, we might see Iran respond with a more cooperative attitude. However, if the policies lean towards confrontation, Iran will likely respond accordingly, as Araqchi hinted.
Editor: So, it really seems to be a wait-and-see game at this point?
Dr. Asgar: Exactly. Iran is currently weighing its options. They don’t want to make the first move unless they are sure it aligns with the new U.S. administration’s direction. This reflects their strategic calculus and the internal discussions within Iranian leadership about how to handle external pressures and opportunities.
Editor: Speaking of internal discussions, how do you think the Iranian populace perceives this delay in action? Do they support a wait-and-see approach?
Dr. Asgar: The Iranian populace has varying opinions depending on their political affiliations and experiences. Generally, there’s a sense of fatigue regarding ongoing sanctions and confrontations. Many people are hopeful for a diplomatic resolution that could alleviate their economic struggles, so they may support a measured approach. However, hardliners within Iran might feel that waiting indicates weakness, advocating for a stance of resistance regardless of U.S. actions.
Editor: That divide within the populace is quite complex. As we look further ahead, what indicators should we be monitoring to assess the potential shift in U.S.-Iran relations?
Dr. Asgar: We should closely follow key appointments in the new administration, particularly those in foreign policy and national security roles. Additionally, any public statements or policy proposals related to Iran will be significant. Further, how both nations choose to communicate, whether through diplomatic channels or international forums, will reveal their strategic intentions and could signal the trajectory of relations in the coming months.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Asgar. Your insights into the evolving U.S.-Iran relationship are invaluable. We appreciate your time and expertise in helping us unravel this complicated situation.
Dr. Asgar: Thank you for having me. It was a pleasure to discuss these timely issues. Let’s hope for constructive developments ahead.