Iran: U.S. Negotiations Hindered by Contradictory Demands

Iran’s Foreign Ministry has stated that talks with Washington to end the ongoing conflict are proceeding under difficult conditions, largely due to shifting and contradictory messages from the United States.

"Negotiations have started amid severe suspicion and mistrust, and the exchange of messages is taking place in this atmosphere."
— Esmaeil Baqaei, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman

Spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei confirmed on Monday that the U.S. is constantly changing its positions and presenting new or contradictory demands, a factor he said is prolonging the negotiations.

Ceasefire in Lebanon as a Precondition

Baqaei emphasized that a ceasefire in Lebanon is an essential condition for any broader deal aimed at ending the war between the U.S. and Iran. This condition is tied to the ongoing Israeli offensive against Hezbollah.

"A ceasefire in Lebanon is an essential condition for any deal aimed at ending the war."

No Nuclear Talks Amid War

According to the spokesman, there are currently no negotiations with the U.S. over Iran's nuclear program. He stated that Iran's priority remains ending the war, not discussing its nuclear ambitions.

U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that the U.S. offensive aims to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons — a goal that Tehran denies.