Iran’s Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian urged European nations to move away from what he termed their “threadbare and failed policy” of threats and pressure; instead emphasizing diplomacy, mutual respect, and constructive engagement as alternatives.
At a regional policy forum in Tehran, Amir-Abdollahian strongly criticized European governments for adhering too closely to Washington’s maximum pressure strategy and for continuing to apply sanctions while pressuring Iran for compliance on nuclear and regional matters.
“The time for coercion has passed,” declared the Foreign Minister, “and Europe must accept that using outdated methods such as pressure and threats to advance their cause will only serve to deepen mistrust and distance further; dialogue based on equality and mutual understanding remains the path towards progress.”
These statements come amid rising tensions between Iran and several European nations, particularly over nuclear negotiations, Iranian drone and missile programs, and human rights abuses. The EU has implemented multiple rounds of sanctions on Iranian officials and institutions while Iran imposed its own restrictions against European entities.
Amir-Abdollahian denounced what he termed as the EU’s double standards toward Iran when it comes to nuclear cooperation and regional security issues.
“Europe must act in good faith if it truly seeks stability and non-proliferation,” he stated, not imposing terms through threats or blackmail.
Iran remains committed to diplomacy, including within the framework of 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), provided other parties uphold their obligations. He reiterated that Iran’s nuclear program is entirely peaceful and under strict international oversight.
“We do not oppose negotiation,” Amir-Abdollahian stated, “but negotiations must take place without coercion or pressure, nor in response to ultimatums.
He voiced concern about increasing European military involvement in the Persian Gulf region and arms sales to regional rivals, noting how such actions fuel insecurity and lead to further conflict escalation.
Iran’s message at the forum was reinforced by various senior officials present, who accused European states of failing to act independently from U.S. policies, thus undermining regional efforts at self-determination and cooperation.
European diplomats have thus far responded cautiously to Iran’s statement, with Josep Borrell, EU’s Foreign Policy Chief stating, ‘the European Union remains committed to constructive engagement with Iran but expects full compliance with international obligations and respect for human rights.”
Analysts note that Amir-Abdollahian’s comments reflect increasing frustration within Tehran over stalled nuclear diplomacy efforts and pressure from the West.
Dr. Mahsa Shadrou, a political analyst from Tehran Center for Strategic Studies. noted: “Tehran is sending out signals that Europe needs to adopt a more balanced and independent approach if they wish to remain relevant in regional diplomacy.”
Iranian Foreign Ministry officials have indicated their openness to continuing dialogue with European capitals on condition that mutual respect and recognition of Iran’s sovereignty and regional role is guaranteed.