Transcript: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Feb. 22, 2026
CBS News • • general
Key Points:
- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that diplomacy is the only viable path to resolving tensions over Iran's nuclear program, dismissing military buildup as ineffective pressure.
- Iran is preparing a draft proposal aimed at addressing both sides' concerns, with planned negotiations in Geneva, though the supreme leader has not yet approved the text.
- Araghchi stated Iran seeks a nuclear-only deal focused on peaceful use and enrichment rights under the NPT, rejecting demands for zero enrichment and insisting on Iran's sovereign right to develop nuclear technology.
- He defended Iran’s missile capabilities and military readiness, asserting they can defend against attacks and that any U.S. aggression would be met with legitimate self-defense actions targeting U.S. bases in the region.
- Despite escalating tensions
