Tehran: The Iranian foreign minister revealed on Sunday that he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt amid the recent 12-day conflict with Israel. During a state television interview, Abbas Araghchi disclosed that a bomb had been discovered outside his residence. Fortunately, security forces intervened in time to neutralize the threat.

According to Anadolu Agency, Araghchi also addressed the assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last year. Following this incident, a pivotal meeting took place with Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, where officials concurred on the need to respond to Israel's actions. Araghchi highlighted the internal debate among Iranian officials regarding the timing and manner of retaliation, with military commanders advocating for a response only when Iran could ensure its defensive capabilities.

The foreign minister also touched upon the complex nuclear negotiations with the United States. Despite opposition from the supreme leader, Araghchi noted that the US had implemented a strategy of maximum pressure, even threatening military deployment in the region. Khamenei eventually allowed for indirect negotiations through Omani mediators, a process disrupted by Israel's surprise attack on Iran on June 13. This attack, which sparked the 12-day war, targeted various sites, including military and nuclear facilities, as well as high-ranking officials.

Iran's counteractions involved launching missile and drone strikes, while the United States responded by bombing three Iranian nuclear sites. The conflict eventually ceased under a ceasefire brokered by the US, which took effect on June 24.