Iran's Araghchi denies US talks, calls mediation 'admission of defeat'

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi firmly denied Wednesday that any negotiations are taking place between Tehran and Washington to end the ongoing conflict, dismissing US claims of diplomatic engagement as posturing.

No direct talks

"There are no ongoing talks with the US," Araghchi said in comments carried by state-run Press TV. He clarified that while Washington is sending messages through various mediators, "exchange of messages via mediators does not mean negotiations." The distinction suggests Iran is rejecting the notion of formal diplomatic engagement despite reported back-channel communications.

Accusation of weakness

Araghchi characterized US talk about negotiations with Iran as "an admission of defeat." He questioned Washington's apparent shift in tone, asking: "Didn't they claim unconditional surrender before? So why are they now mobilizing their top officials to negotiate?" The remarks reflect Tehran's skepticism toward US overtures following weeks of intense military strikes.

Conflict continues

The denial of negotiations comes amid sustained hostilities following the US-Israeli offensive against Iran launched Feb. 28, which has killed more than 1,340 people including former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, while the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, disrupting global energy markets.