Any 'maximum pressure' policy to be met with maximum defeat: Iran FM
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Iran's foreign minister underlines that if the United States were to revert to the maximum pressure policy under Trump it would be met with a resounding failure.
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Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi speaks during a news conference, on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at UN headquarters. (AP)
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has cautioned the United States that any renewed "maximum pressure" policy would lead to failure, urging Washington to consider a strategy of "maximum wisdom" instead.
In a series of posts on his X account, Araghchi argued that the initial phase of maximum pressure on Iran had ended in a significant setback for the US.
"The second version of maximum pressure will lead to the second version of maximum failure for the United States," he stated.
"Maximum Pressure 1.0 compelled Maximum Resistance and ended in Maximum Defeat for the US. The proof? One example: just compare Iran's peaceful nuclear program before and after the so-called 'Maximum Pressure' policy," the top Iranian diplomat wrote.
Araghchi’s comments refer to the US sanctions and diplomatic isolation measures applied under previous American administrations, which he stressed had spurred resilience rather than compliance within Iran.
Emphasizing the need for a more constructive approach, he suggested that the US adopt "maximum wisdom" as a diplomatic alternative.
"Attempting 'Maximum Pressure 2.0' will only result in 'Maximum Defeat 2.0'," Araghchi warned, adding, "Better idea: try 'Maximum Wisdom'—for the benefit of all."
Iran will have to deal with US
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian underscored the need for a pragmatic approach to foreign relations, emphasizing that Iran cannot ignore its arch-foe, the United States, and must approach adversaries with "forbearance," state media reported Tuesday.
The Iranian President's remarks come as Donald Trump secures a US presidential election victory, casting new uncertainty on Iran-US relations.
During a meeting with international political figures in Tehran, Pezeshkian expressed that Iran should independently manage its dealings with Washington, stressing, "Whether we like it or not, we will have to deal with the US in regional and international arenas, so it is better to manage this relation ourselves."
"We must treat our friends with generosity and handle our enemies with forbearance," Pezeshkian added.
He also highlighted Iran's strong ties with neighboring countries and mentioned successful recent meetings and agreements. The Iranian President shared that his country is currently negotiating with European nations, though he accused "the Zionist entity" of attempting to interfere and complicate this diplomatic course.
On the US front, Pezeshkian called for Iranian diplomats to manage negotiations with Washington without intermediaries.
