Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that ongoing exchanges of messages with the United States through intermediaries do not amount to formal negotiations, emphasizing that Tehran is not seeking direct talks with Washington at this stage.
Speaking to Iran’s state television on Wednesday, Araqchi clarified that the United States has been sending multiple messages via “friendly countries” in recent days. However, he stressed that these communications are strictly message exchanges, not negotiations or dialogue. “Sending messages and responding with warnings or clarifications of our positions does not constitute negotiation,” he said.
Araqchi reiterated that Iran does not seek war and aims for a permanent resolution to the conflict. He added that all proposals received are being reviewed by the country’s highest authorities, and no direct talks with the U.S. are planned.
He also criticized the U.S. position, saying that Washington’s recent calls for negotiations represent “an acknowledgment of failure” after previously demanding unconditional surrender. “Did the Americans not demand unconditional surrender before? Why are they now speaking about negotiations?” he asked, describing the shift in U.S. rhetoric as a sign of defeat.
In contrast, White House officials maintain that talks with Iran are progressing rapidly, despite Tehran’s reported rejection of a 15-point plan proposed by the U.S. to end the ongoing conflict.
