Tehran’s lead negotiator delivered a firm message during weekend diplomatic meetings, declaring that Iran will not yield on its core national interests while pursuing peace talks with Washington.
Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf made the statement Saturday during discussions with Pakistani army chief Asim Munir in Tehran, according to state television coverage. The Iranian official characterized the United States as an unreliable negotiating partner.
Pakistan is spearheading regional diplomatic efforts to bridge the gap between the two nations following weeks of warfare that forced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to most commercial vessels. The shipping disruption has created instability in global energy markets, despite a fragile ceasefire currently in place.
The Pakistani military leader also held meetings with President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi during his Tehran visit before departing, Iranian state media reported.
Discussions focused on a 14-point proposal from Iran that serves as the primary framework for negotiations, along with messages passed between both sides.
Qalibaf emphasized Iran’s commitment to defending its “legitimate rights” through both military action and diplomatic channels, while expressing distrust toward “a party that has no honesty at all” – a criticism Tehran has voiced repeatedly.
The Iranian speaker warned that the country’s military forces have strengthened their position during the current ceasefire. Should the United States “foolishly restarts the war,” he cautioned, the results would be “more forceful and bitter” than when fighting initially began.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged Friday that some advancement toward an agreement has occurred, though significant work remains. Iran’s foreign ministry countered that substantial disagreements persist between the parties.
Throughout the weeks of conflict, Iran has maintained its stockpile of highly enriched uranium approaching weapons-grade levels, along with its missile, drone and proxy force capabilities that both the United States and Israel seek to restrict.
