TEHRAN: Iran has reaffirmed its trust in neighboring Pakistan while firmly ruling out direct negotiations with the United States, citing what it described as a history of betrayal in American diplomacy, a spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.
In a series of remarks, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmail Baqai outlined Tehran’s stance on regional diplomacy, the Strait of Hormuz, and indirect exchanges with Washington, emphasizing that the Islamic Republic remains committed to defending its territorial integrity.
Regional Diplomacy and Ties with Pakistan
Baqai highlighted Iran’s strong relationship with Pakistan, stating that Tehran views its eastern neighbor as a nation with good intentions. He noted that Iran’s Foreign Minister has been in active contact with counterparts in neighboring countries, including Pakistan, to discuss efforts aimed at reducing tensions in the region.
“Regional states and neighboring countries are concerned about the consequences of this situation. Everyone is trying to improve the situation in one way or another,” Baqai said, underscoring the ongoing diplomatic engagement.
No Direct Talks with the United States
The spokesperson was unequivocal regarding the possibility of direct negotiations between Iran and the United States, stating that no such talks are taking place. He referenced a history of mistrust, pointing to what he called a “disastrous experience” with American diplomacy.
“We had made it clear the other day that there are no talks or negotiations between Iran and the United States,” Baqai said. “We were attacked twice during negotiations in a period of nine months. The attack on Iran during the negotiations was a betrayal of diplomacy.”
He added that there had been no contact between the two countries in the past 24 days.
Requests for Mediation
Baqai confirmed that several countries, both within the region and beyond, have offered to mediate between Tehran and Washington. He said Iran has received these requests and responded to them accordingly, without providing specific details.
According to the spokesperson, the United States, through some friendly countries, had requested negotiations to end the ongoing war. Iran, he said, responded to these requests in line with its principles, while also issuing warnings about the consequences of any potential attack on Iranian infrastructure.
“These responses also gave the necessary warning about the serious consequences of any attack on Iran’s critical infrastructure,” Baqai said. “It was made clear that in such a situation, the Iranian armed forces would respond immediately, decisively and effectively.”
