ALWAGHT- Iran’s foreign minister has rejected the idea of direct talks with the United States, calling them “meaningless” in light of Washington’s military threats, while reaffirming Tehran’s willingness to engage in diplomacy and indirect discussions.
Abbas Araghchi dismissed claims by US President Donald Trump that Iran is open to direct talks, calling such negotiations “meaningless” while the US continues to threaten military action. Speaking at a Saturday ceremony, Araghchi confirmed that Iran had responded to a letter from Trump but emphasized that diplomacy is only viable if conducted with mutual respect and without coercion.
Despite rejecting direct talks, Araghchi reiterated Iran’s commitment to diplomacy through indirect negotiations. He criticized the US for withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear deal despite Iran's voluntary compliance and stated that Iran is open to discussing its nuclear program in exchange for lifting sanctions as a trust-building measure. He stressed that Iran is serious about negotiations but also prepared to firmly defend its national interests.
Araghchi also highlighted Iran's broader regional stance, calling for international cooperation to stop Israel's actions in Gaza and its aggression toward Lebanon and Syria. He expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people and underlined the need to end their suffering, positioning Iran as both a diplomatic actor and a defender of regional sovereignty.
