FM Spokesman: Zionist Regime Founded On Occupation

Tehran, July 22, IRNA – Iranˈs Foreign Ministry spokesman, Abbass Araghchi, said on Monday that Zionist regimeˈs structure is based on occupation. Speaking to reporters, Araghchi said the Zionist regime is not basically fond of dialogue with Palestinians. Asked to comment on recent gestures of the US Secretary of State on resumption of peace talks between the Palestinian Authority and the Zionist regime, Araghchi said, ˈRegarding our experience, the Zionist regime is not well prepared to pay any expenses for peace because the the regime thirves on conflicts.ˈ Referring to agreements on revival of the peace process, including the territorial exchange plan, he said the issue not only means disrespect for the Palestinian refugeesˈ right to return but serves as a symbol of expulsion of those Palestinians residing in Palestine since its occupation. This is while, the plan does not make any reference to the basic issues, letˈs say the noble Qods and Palestinian refugeesˈ right to return, said Araghci. He said the Islamic Republic of Iran along with Palestinian groups announces its opposition to the proposed plan and is confident that the Zionist regime has by no means accepted the principle of withdrawal from the occupied lands. ˈThose, easily speaking of the possibility of exchange of lands with the Quds occupying regime, will in the future have to give more concessions to Zionists and this will run counter to the dignity of Palestinians, noble Quds and Islamic Ummah.ˈ He noted that in the opinion of the Islamic Republic of Iran, any approach to the Middle East developments should be based on the principle of justice and human dignity, considering root causes of the crisis and endeavoring to settle the problem by restoring the rights of the Palestinian and other regional nations. He said ending the long-term conflict in the Middle East and restoring a fair and durable peace to the region would not be possible as long as basic issues such as end of occupation of all occupied lands, granting the Palestinian nation the right to decide their fate, return of all refugees to their ancestral land and formation of a Palestinian government with Quds as its capital are not resolved./end