Iran Rejects US Negotiation Offer Amidst Ongoing Conflict
Washington – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran has no interest in engaging in dialogue with the United States, dismissing claims by President Donald Trump that Tehran is seeking a deal to finish the current conflict. Araghchi emphasized Iran’s resolve to defend itself, asserting the country is “stable and strong enough.”
No Reason for Talks, Says Araghchi
“We don’t spot any reason why we should talk to America, because we were talking to them when they decided to attack us,” Araghchi said in an interview with CBS’s “Face The Nation” program [1]. He added, “There is no good experience talking to America.”
Trump’s Claims of Iranian Overture
Araghchi’s statements directly contradict recent assertions by President Trump, who has claimed Iran is seeking a deal. On Friday, Trump posted on Truth Social that Iran “is totally defeated and wants a deal — but not a deal that I would accept.” [2] He reiterated this position on Saturday, telling NBC News that although Iran “wants to make a deal,” he would not pursue one because the proposed terms “aren’t good enough yet.”
Iran Did Not Seek Ceasefire or Negotiations
“We never asked for a ceasefire, and we never even asked for negotiations,” Araghchi clarified. He stated Iran is prepared to defend itself “as long as it takes.” [3]
Potential for Safe Passage in Strait of Hormuz
Araghchi indicated Iran is open to discussions regarding safe passage for oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. “I can’t name any specific countries, but we have been approached by a number of countries who want to have safe passage for their ships,” he said. [2]
Conflict Background
The current conflict began with a joint US-Israeli strike on Iran on February 28th. Iran has since launched drones and missiles into neighboring countries hosting US forces. [2] Araghchi characterized these strikes as defensive actions, noting that countries like Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates “gave their soil to American forces to attack us.” [2]
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran was not interested in talks with the United States, pushing back on President Donald Trump’s stance that Tehran wants a deal to end the war. [4]