Iran Vows to Maintain Uranium Enrichment Despite US Strikes, Calls Program Peaceful
July 22, 2025 — Iran’s foreign minister has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to its nuclear programme, stating that uranium enrichment remains a symbol of national pride, despite recent U.S. airstrikes that severely damaged multiple nuclear facilities.
Speaking to Fox News, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi admitted that uranium enrichment is currently halted due to extensive damage but made clear that Tehran does not intend to abandon the effort.
“Yes, the damage is serious and enrichment is currently paused, but this is a scientific achievement developed by our own people. We cannot give it up,” Araghchi stated.
He also emphasized that any future nuclear agreement must preserve Iran’s right to enrichment.
The remarks follow U.S. airstrikes on June 22 targeting three key nuclear sites, including the heavily fortified Fordow facility. These strikes came in response to a 12-day war between Israel and Iran, which began with an Israeli attack on June 13. Though Araghchi confirmed the destruction of the facilities, he stressed that the country’s nuclear expertise remains unaffected.
“Our technology is homegrown. It can’t be eliminated by missiles,” he said.
Trump Responds: “Will Strike Again If Necessary”
Former U.S. President Donald Trump reacted on Truth Social, saying the U.S. would not hesitate to launch additional strikes if required.
“Just like I said—and we’ll do it again if necessary,” he wrote.
He also criticized CNN over reports suggesting the attacks had only temporarily disrupted Iran’s nuclear progress, calling for the dismissal of the journalist who cited that analysis.
Iran Open to Talks, But Not with the US
Araghchi said that Iran remains open to negotiations, particularly with European powers, but ruled out direct dialogue with the United States under current conditions.
“We’re prepared to take confidence-building steps to show our program is peaceful—but we need sanctions lifted in return,” he said.
He also confirmed that Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization is still assessing the full extent of the damage and did not specify whether any enriched uranium survived the strikes.
Missile Development Will Continue
Araghchi declared that despite Israeli strikes on Iran’s missile sites, the country still possesses significant missile capabilities and will continue its development and production.
“We still have a strong missile arsenal and will defend ourselves,” he stated.
Next Round of Talks Set in Istanbul
Diplomatic discussions are set to resume Friday in Istanbul between Iran and the E3—France, Germany, and the UK. Previous U.S.-Iran talks were conducted indirectly through Omani intermediaries before hostilities broke out last month.
