Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said the main obstacle in relations between Iran and the United States is Washington’s approach toward Tehran, rather than the availability of mediators.
According to Al Jazeera, Araghchi made the remarks on July 23, 2026, while addressing the media during a meeting between Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi in Tehran.
Commenting on Ali al-Zaidi’s recent visit to Washington, Araghchi said it was natural for the Iraqi leader to share his views and impressions from the trip with Iranian officials.
He also dismissed concerns about communication channels with the United States, saying, “We do not currently have a problem with the issue of mediators with the United States – there are enough mediators between us who are carrying out this role.”
“The problem is the nature of the US approach – its irrational, excessive and hegemonic approach – which has been met with a firm response from our side,” Araghchi said.
He added that meaningful progress would only be possible if the United States respected the Iranian people and their interests.
