Iran Denies Requesting Negotiations with US, Confirms Regional Mediator Talks
Esmaeil Baqaee, spokesperson for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that Tehran has made no request to negotiate with the United States. He noted that Iran has only accepted one request from a regional mediator to visit the country and discuss the latest developments, expressing its views during a meeting with Qatari officials in Mashhad.
In a televised interview, Baqaee also criticized recent US sanctions, calling them violations of the memorandum of understanding between the two sides. He said that since the memorandum was signed, some of its provisions have not been upheld by the US, and emphasized Iran’s principle of “commitment for commitment,” which means that the fulfillment of any commitment depends on the other party’s compliance.
Baqaee described the recent United Nations Security Council meeting on Iran’s nuclear dossier as unproductive. He said the session, held at the request of the US, UK, and France, lacked a proper legal basis from Iran’s perspective.
According to Baqaee, the meeting also addressed Iran’s refusal to allow inspections of certain damaged facilities. He stressed that Tehran had expected international bodies to take a clearer stance regarding the attacks on these sites.
Separately, Baqaee announced an upcoming trip by Iran’s foreign minister to Oman. He said the visit aims to continue bilateral consultations concerning the Strait of Hormuz and maritime security, with the goal of strengthening technical cooperation to ensure the safe passage of ships through this vital sea route.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the region’s strategically important energy transit routes. In recent years, Iran and Oman have engaged in discussions about managing safety and maritime services in this area.
