Iranian Foreign Minister Rules Out Negotiations with U.S.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced on Wednesday that Tehran does not intend to engage in negotiations with the United States, opting instead to persist in its current course of action. This statement follows the White House's assertion that talks between the two nations are ongoing.

"At present, our policy is the continuation of resistance," Araghchi stated on state television. He further emphasized, "We do not intend to negotiate—so far, no negotiations have taken place, and I believe our position is completely principled."

Araghchi also remarked that discussing negotiations at this juncture would be tantamount to admitting defeat.

On the same day, the White House issued a warning, threatening severe consequences for Iran if it refuses to negotiate a peace deal with the U.S. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt commented, "Talks continue. They are productive."

Pakistani officials have indicated that Islamabad conveyed a 15-point American proposal to Tehran aimed at halting the hostilities that began on February 28 with U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran, which have since escalated across the region. Leavitt acknowledged that there are "elements of truth" to reports regarding this proposal.

Addressing the purported plan, Araghchi noted that various ideas have been presented and relayed to senior officials. He stated that any official position would be determined if deemed necessary. He clarified that while messages are being exchanged through intermediaries, this does not constitute formal dialogue or negotiation.

The foreign minister also mentioned that while Iran might consider security guarantees ratified by the UN Security Council, Tehran has established its own assurances through its conduct in the ongoing conflict.