Iran Refuses Talks Until U.S. Ceases Deception and Commits to Genuine Diplomacy

In an interview broadcast by the UK-based Sky News on Thursday, Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei emphasized that the White House needs to demonstrate a sincere commitment to diplomatic engagement before any potential resumption of the stalled nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States.

He emphasized that Americans must genuinely commit to diplomatic principles, cautioning against the manipulation of diplomacy as a means of deception or a tool for psychological warfare against their counterparts.

In response to inquiries about the potential resumption of talks between Tehran and Washington, Baghaei indicated that indirect communications have been ongoing. He mentioned that the Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, is currently engaged in discussions with representatives from Oman, Qatar, and other nations, underscoring that diplomatic efforts remain continuous.

Since April, Tehran and Washington have engaged in five rounds of Oman-mediated indirect negotiations in both Rome and Muscat concerning Iran’s nuclear program. These talks occur against a backdrop of frequent shifts in U.S. positions, prompting Iranian officials to voice criticism over what they describe as “contradictory” statements from American representatives.

The negotiations came to a halt following Israel’s military offensive on June 13, which persisted for 12 days. In response, Iran’s armed forces launched a series of decisive ballistic missile attacks targeting Tel Aviv, Haifa, and other areas under occupation.

After more than a week into the conflict, the United States decided to engage in direct intervention as Israel encountered significant challenges in the ongoing war.

In the early hours of June 22, the United States carried out unauthorized strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities located in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. This action has been criticized as a blatant violation of international law and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

Baghaei stated, “Initially, it is crucial to comprehend the situation. The incident represents a definitive act of aggression by Israel, followed by the United States, targeting our territorial integrity and national sovereignty.”

During a twelve-day period, an unprovoked attack was initiated against Iran, resulting in the loss of nearly a thousand Iranian lives in what has been described as a brutal act of aggression thrust upon the nation, he stated.

The recent actions by the United States have heightened skepticism regarding its intentions, leading Iranian leaders to criticize the heavy emphasis on negotiations. They have questioned why Washington would choose military actions if diplomatic avenues were genuinely being pursued.

Baghaei stated that the nation’s nuclear facilities have suffered significant damage. However, he emphasized that these sites have been under the most rigorous inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency. He cautioned against any additional aggressive actions by the Zionist regime.

Baghaei emphasized that the armed forces are fully prepared for any potential challenges.

During the 12-day conflict, Iran reportedly issued a firm response to actions perceived as aggression from Israel and the United States, emphasizing its readiness to retaliate against any future hostile acts, according to statements from Iranian officials.

The statement underscored the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and honor through decisive action.