Iran Open to Recognising Israel Under Conditions: Ambassador Calls for U.S. Sanctions Relief and End to Palestinian Bloodshed

 

By ANN News International Desk
Tehran | July 7, 2025

In a stunning and unexpected diplomatic statement, a senior Iranian diplomat has signaled that Tehran could consider recognising Israel under certain conditions. Speaking to an international media outlet, the Iranian Ambassador said that if the United States were to lift all sanctions against Iran, and if Israel halts its aggression against Palestinians, Tehran is ready to “sit at the table and talk about recognition.”

“We have no issue with Israel itself. Our problem has always been with its policy of opposing our nuclear development while maintaining its own nuclear arsenal. If Israel can build nuclear power, why not Iran?” the ambassador said in the interview.

The ambassador emphasized that Iran’s long-standing resistance was rooted in double standards, especially in regard to nuclear capability and the treatment of Palestinians.

“Israel must stop the killing of innocent Palestinians. If there is a sincere step from Israel and the United States, especially on lifting the unjust sanctions on us, we are open to dialogue and possible recognition,” he added.

A Shift from Historic Stance

Iran’s position marks a notable departure from decades of hostility between the Islamic Republic and Israel. Since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iran has refused to recognise Israel, calling it a “Zionist regime” and frequently vowing to support the Palestinian resistance.

However, the growing economic pressure due to U.S.-led sanctions, regional instability, and shifting alliances in the Middle East may have triggered a reassessment of Tehran’s diplomatic roadmap.

 

This statement comes at a time when several Arab countries  have normalised ties with Israel under the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords. These historic agreements were driven by economic interests and concerns over Iran’s regional influence.

If Iran proceeds with this unprecedented move, it could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.

Example: In 2020, the UAE signed a deal to normalise relations with Israel, opening embassies and initiating trade agreements. A similar move by Iran could result in a significant thaw in relations and open the door for Western investments.

 

So far, there has been no official response from Washington or Tel Aviv, but analysts say the ball is now in the court of the Biden administration and Israeli leadership.

 

“This is perhaps the biggest opportunity for peace diplomacy in decades. Iran is laying down clear, negotiable terms. The question is whether the U.S. and Israel are willing to compromise.”

 

Iran also raised the longstanding issue of nuclear equity. While Israel is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons, it has never signed the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Iran, a signatory, has repeatedly insisted its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes.

“If Israel, which is not part of the NPT, can maintain a nuclear arsenal, why is Iran denied the right to civilian nuclear power under full IAEA inspection?” the ambassador asked.

 

The ambassador’s remarks could signal a possible breakthrough in one of the most bitter rivalries in modern geopolitics. If met with genuine diplomacy and mutual concessions, this rare opening could lead to a new chapter in Middle Eastern relations — one that includes Iran, Israel, and the global powers at a new negotiation table.