Iran has denied engaging in any negotiations with the United States, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi saying Tehran has not responded to a reported American proposal aimed at ending the ongoing war.
In an interview with Al Jazeera aired Wednesday, Araghchi said while messages have been exchanged both directly and through regional intermediaries there is no basis for formal talks.
“We receive messages from the American side… and respond when necessary,” he said. “But there are no grounds for negotiations.”
His comments come amid reports that Washington had presented a 15-point plan to halt the conflict.
While some Iranian media suggested Tehran had offered a counterproposal, Araghchi dismissed those claims as speculation, insisting no official response had been made.
The war, which began on February 28 following deadly strikes that killed Iran’s supreme leader, has since spread across the region, drawing in the United States and Israel.
Diplomatic efforts led by countries including Turkey, Egypt and Pakistan have so far failed to produce a breakthrough.
Araghchi also underscored Iran’s deep mistrust of Washington, saying there is “zero” trust in the United States. He added that Iran is not seeking a ceasefire but rather a complete end to the war, along with reparations.
Tensions remain high in the Gulf, where Iran has restricted movement through the Strait of Hormuz a critical route for global oil shipments allowing only limited passage for vessels it does not consider hostile.
Meanwhile, Tehran has warned of serious consequences if U.S. forces expand their presence in the region, including a possible ground operation.
“We are waiting,” Araghchi said, cautioning that any escalation would come at a heavy cost.
