Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Sunday accused Israel of crossing a “red line” by attacking Iran’s nuclear facilities, saying the strike forced Iran to respond in self-defence by targeting Israeli economic interests.

Speaking at a press conference in Tehran, Araghchi claimed that such an attack would not have been possible without US support and alleged it was part of a broader plan to sabotage nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States.

“Israel has deliberately targeted our nuclear installations to derail the diplomatic process,” Araghchi said.

Iran’s foreign minister criticises UN Security Council for inaction on Israeli attacks

“We were left with no choice but to respond. Our actions were purely defensive in nature.”

Araghchi regretted that the United States had “become a part of this conspiracy,” warning that Washington’s involvement signals a dangerous shift.

Araghchi called on the international community to condemn Israeli aggression and help stabilise the region.

Despite escalating tensions, the Iranian foreign minister reiterated that Iran does not seek to expand the conflict.

“Iran’s policy remains defensive,” he said. “We do not want this conflict to spill into other nations, but we will not compromise on our sovereignty.”

Araghchi emphasized that Iran will not accept any nuclear agreement that restricts its right to develop nuclear energy.

He confirmed that uranium enrichment beyond 60% will continue.

While acknowledging the possibility of progress in the ongoing nuclear talks, Araghchi accused Israel of deliberately attempting to sabotage the process, with tacit support from the United States.

“This is a regrettable and alarming trend,” he noted, warning that further provocations could endanger regional peace.