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Iran's Parliament Speaker Emphasizes Military Strength in US Negotiations

In a recent statement, Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has taken a hardline stance on negotiations with the United States, prioritizing military strength over diplomatic assurances. He outlined key principles that reflect Iran's skepticism towards US commitments amidst ongoing discussions about the nuclear program and sanctions relief. Ghalibaf's remarks indicate a deep mistrust and suggest that Tehran is preparing for a prolonged period of tension, even if a temporary agreement is reached. This narrative of strength and resistance is being reinforced through Iranian media as diplomatic efforts continue.
By Narendra Chaudhary May 29, 2026, 21:17 IST

Iran's Stance on US Negotiations

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the Speaker of Iran’s Parliament and a pivotal player in the nuclear discussions with the United States, has articulated a firm stance regarding negotiations with Washington. He stressed the importance of military capability over diplomatic assurances in a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday. Ghalibaf asserted that Iran does not depend on verbal commitments and sees negotiations mainly as a means to demonstrate its resolve.

 Key Points from Ghalibaf

He outlined three fundamental principles:

  1. “We obtain concessions not through dialogue, but through our missile capabilities; our negotiations serve to make them understand our position.”
  2. “We place no trust in promises or words—only actions count. We will not act until the other party does.”
  3. “The party that is better prepared for conflict will emerge victorious from any agreement.”

These statements highlight Iran’s ongoing skepticism regarding US commitments amidst fragile ceasefire discussions aimed at resolving the conflict that began in late February.

Context of Ongoing US-Iran Discussions

Ghalibaf, who has been instrumental in indirect negotiations facilitated by nations like Pakistan and Oman, has consistently indicated that Tehran will not offer unilateral concessions. His remarks come as both parties exchange proposals concerning Iran’s nuclear program, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and the issue of sanctions relief. US officials have noted that recent talks have shown “slight progress,” yet President Donald Trump continues to adopt a hardline approach, cautioning that military options remain viable if Iran fails to comply with American expectations. Iranian authorities have maintained that any conclusive agreement must entail the lifting of sanctions, assurances against future assaults, and acknowledgment of Iran’s security interests in the region. Ghalibaf's latest comments reinforce the profound mistrust from the Iranian perspective and indicate that Tehran is bracing for a prolonged period of tension, even if a temporary agreement is achieved. His statements were widely circulated in Iranian state-affiliated media and social networks, bolstering a narrative of strength and resilience ahead of further diplomatic engagements.