Iran Denies Direct Talks with the US Amid Renewed Negotiation Hopes
Iran's Stance on US Negotiations
Iran has firmly rejected claims of engaging in direct discussions with the United States, despite indications from Washington suggesting a renewed interest in dialogue. Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry, stated that Tehran has only received indirect messages through intermediaries, characterizing US diplomatic efforts as inconsistent and unreliable amidst ongoing tensions. He remarked, “What has been conveyed are messages we received through intermediaries indicating that the US is interested in negotiations.” Baghaei questioned the credibility of American diplomatic claims, asserting that Iran has maintained a consistent position while the US has frequently altered its stance. He emphasized that the demands communicated to Iran have been excessive and unreasonable.
Baghaei also commented on Pakistan's role, noting that the framework for their meetings was established independently, without Iran's involvement. He acknowledged the regional concern for ending the conflict but cautioned against misattributing blame for its initiation.
US President's Optimism on Regime Change
Deal Soon? Trump expresses confidence of a regime change
In contrast, US President Donald Trump has expressed optimism that the conflict with Iran is shifting in favor of the United States. He claimed that the joint efforts of the US and Israel have already resulted in a 'regime change' and suggested that a deal with Tehran could be imminent. Speaking from Air Force One, Trump cited the elimination of several high-ranking Iranian officials as proof of a significant political transformation. “We’ve had regime change. We’re dealing with different people… a whole different group,” he stated, indicating that negotiations might soon come to fruition.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has now reached its 30th day, with over 3,000 casualties reported since the war erupted on February 28, following US and Israeli strikes on Iran. This has led to retaliatory Iranian attacks on Israeli and US military targets, as well as other locations in neighboring Gulf Arab states. Furthermore, Iran's control over the vital Strait of Hormuz has caused fluctuations in global oil markets, given that 20% of the world's oil trade transits through this crucial passage. Recent reports suggest that the involvement of Iranian-backed Houthi rebels could further jeopardize shipping routes in the Bab el-Mandeb strait leading to the Red Sea.