Amid speculation over a potential U.S. military strike against Iran, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on the 20th (local time) that the next step in nuclear negotiations with the United States would be to present a draft proposal to the U.S. side within the "next two to three days."

Foreign news outlets, including AFP and RIA Novosti, reported that Minister Araghchi made the remarks during an appearance on the U.S. television network MSNBC that day.

Minister Araghchi asserted, "We have not proposed any suspension (to the U.S.), and the U.S. side has not demanded 'zero enrichment' (of uranium)."

'Zero enrichment' refers to Iran abandoning not only the acquisition of weapons-grade highly enriched uranium used for nuclear weapons but also low-enriched uranium for nuclear power generation.

Minister Araghchi emphasized, "What we are discussing now is how to ensure that Iran’s nuclear program, including enrichment, is peaceful and will remain peaceful forever."

Addressing the United States, Minister Araghchi said, "If you speak to the Iranian people in the language of respect, we will respond in the same language."

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi [AP/Yonhap News file photo]