Iran has ‘good intentions but no trust’ ahead of US talks

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf struck a cautious note upon arriving in Islamabad on Saturday, stating that Tehran has “good intentions but no trust” ahead of direct talks with the United States. “Unfortunately, our experience of negotiating with the Americans has always been met with failure and breach of contract,” Qalibaf told the Tasnim News Agency. “Twice in less than a year, in the middle of negotiations, despite the good intentions of the Iranian side, they attacked us and committed numerous war crimes.”

Ready for a Deal, but Wary

Qalibaf stressed that Iran is ready to reach an agreement if Washington demonstrates genuine commitment. “In the upcoming negotiations, if the American side is ready to make a real agreement and grant the rights of the Iranian people, they will see our readiness to make an agreement as well,” he said. However, he warned that Tehran would respond firmly if talks were used as a cover for a “fruitless show and deception operation.” He added that Iran would rely on “faith in God and the power of our people” to realise its rights.

Vance: Open Hand or Firm Response

US Vice President JD Vance, who is leading the American delegation, said before departing: “If the Iranians are willing to negotiate in good faith, we are certainly willing to extend the open hand.” He warned, however, that “if they’re going to try to play us, they’re going to find that the negotiating team is not that receptive.” The talks in Islamabad follow a two‑week ceasefire brokered by Pakistan, Türkiye, China, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, exactly 40 days after the US‑Israeli attacks on Iran began on 28 February.