Tehran, Iran – In remarks reflecting the complexities of the diplomatic landscape amid the escalating regional conflict, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi denied that negotiations were underway with the United States. He emphasized that Tehran had not yet given any official response to the 15-point US proposal aimed at ending the war.
Communication channels and messages exchanged
In an interview with Al Jazeera broadcast on Wednesday, Araqchi explained that his country receives messages from the American side through multiple channels, some direct and others through intermediaries and friends in the region. The minister also indicated that these messages are answered “as needed.” He revealed that some direct correspondence has taken place with the US Special Envoy, Steve Wittakoff. However, he emphasized that “there is currently no basis for negotiations” under the present circumstances.
The reality of the Iranian response and the Pakistani initiative
These statements come after reports that Islamabad conveyed a 15-point US plan to Tehran last week. This coincides with regional diplomatic efforts involving Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan. In response to media reports that Iran had submitted a five-point counter-proposal demanding a halt to “aggression” and security guarantees, Araqchi dismissed these reports as “mere media speculation.” He emphasized that Tehran “has not yet submitted any response to that proposal.”
Tehran’s conditions and ending the conflict
Araghchi expressed his country’s hardline stance toward Washington, describing trust in the United States as “completely nonexistent.” He emphasized that Iran would not accept a temporary “ceasefire” but demanded a “complete and comprehensive end to the war.” Furthermore, he stressed the need for compensation for the damage caused by the conflict, which has escalated since last March. These statements reflect a wide gap between Iranian demands and international proposals. This places regional diplomatic efforts under immense pressure to defuse the crisis, which is beginning to cast a shadow over the stability of the entire region.
