Iran’s top foreign policy adviser, Seyyed Kamal Kharrazi, head of the Strategic Council on Foreign Relations, emphasized that the United States must take the initiative if it seeks meaningful dialogue with Tehran.

Speaking in remarks published this week following an interview with CNN, Kharrazi highlighted that previous attempts to pressure Iran through sanctions and military threats had failed and stressed that engagement must be based on mutual respect.

“It is their responsibility to take the first step and to prove that they are ready to engage with us based on the conditions we have clearly defined,” Kharrazi said, adding that Iran would not respond to coercive pressure.

Addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear activities, Kharrazi stated that the program is entirely indigenous, developed by Iranian scientists and engineers. He underlined that the capability represents a strategic achievement and cannot be dismantled through foreign pressure. Iran, he said, remains open to discussions limited to nuclear matters, rejecting negotiations on broader strategic issues.

Kharrazi reaffirmed that Iran’s ballistic missile program is not open for discussion under any circumstances. “This program is an essential component of Iran’s defense doctrine,” he said, noting that despite international pressure, Tehran will continue to strengthen its missile capabilities. He criticized Western powers for supplying advanced weaponry to Iran’s regional rivals while ignoring Iran’s security concerns, leaving the country no choice but to maintain robust defensive capacities.

On the prospect of improved ties with the new U.S. administration, Kharrazi said Iran could respond positively if Washington pursues a constructive approach, free from military threats or coercion. “If they choose a positive path, they will find a positive response. But they must completely avoid the use of force against Iran. They tried it before and they know it does not work,” he stated.

Kharrazi’s statements come amid renewed international discussions on the future of the 2015 nuclear agreement and growing regional tensions. Iranian officials continue to insist that any diplomatic engagement must respect Iran’s sovereignty and legitimate rights, with mutual respect serving as the cornerstone of potential negotiations. (ILKHA)