According to ISNA, Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, appeared on the German ARD network’s Bericht aus Berlin program on Sunday evening, answering the host’s questions.
The transcript of the interview is as follows:
Host: The U.S. and countries like Germany are asking Iran to halt its nuclear program. After last night’s U.S. attack, will you do so?
Takht-Ravanchi: We are a committed member of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), and within this framework, we continue enrichment for peaceful purposes and our country’s needs. No one can tell us what to do or not do as long as we operate within our NPT commitments.
Host: You say you won’t change your policy, but the U.S. President said last night that “Iran’s nuclear program has been completely wiped out.” Is that true?
This is his assessment. I won’t comment on last night’s aggression or the status of our program (nuclear program). What matters is that this was a blatant act of aggression against our peaceful nuclear program, which is protected under international law. Attacking such safeguarded facilities is a crime—a crime unfortunately ignored by some countries.
Host: What will Iran’s response be? Will you target U.S. bases in the region? What will happen in the Strait of Hormuz?
As victims of aggression, we have the right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter. This right is recognized in international law, and that is exactly what we will do.
Host: We know international law, but what specific action will you take?
I’m not a military official. But our military knows what needs to be done and will do exactly that.
Host: Can we say an attack on U.S. bases is ruled out?
As I said, I won’t provide details on what we will do.
Host: The U.S. and Germany’s Chancellor are asking you to engage in dialogue immediately. Will you engage with the U.S. or perhaps Israel?
We were in talks on June 13 when we were attacked. When Israel, with U.S. support, attacks us, continuing dialogue becomes meaningless. We don’t engage in talks just for the sake of talking.
Host: Iran’s Foreign Minister is now traveling to Russia. How can Russia help? What is the purpose of this trip?
Russia is our neighbor. We cooperate with Russia in various fields, including economic, commercial, investment, and cultural areas. We must remain in dialogue and coordination with Russia. It is a permanent member of the UN Security Council. As neighbors, we need to consult and exchange views. That’s exactly what our Foreign Minister is doing in Moscow.
Host: Are you also seeking military support from Moscow?
Don’t expect me to discuss this on camera. But we have military cooperation with Russia. This is no secret. Our military cooperation with Russia has been ongoing for decades.
Host: A few days ago, Germany’s Chancellor said, “Israel is doing the dirty work for us.” Is Germany a negotiating partner for you?
It is deeply regrettable that such language is used by Germany’s Chancellor. We don’t know if he regrets this statement or not. This is not an appropriate way to address such serious matters. We expect Germany to stand with the victim, not the aggressor.
