Tehran/Washington (Rajeev Sharma): Iran has sharply criticized the United States for what it describes as an attempt to impose negotiations through intimidation, as tensions between the two sides continue to escalate.
Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that Tehran would not enter into any dialogue conducted under pressure, asserting that the US approach reflects a demand for surrender rather than genuine diplomacy. In a message shared on X, he emphasized that Iran is preparing to take further strategic steps, hinting at a possible escalation on the battlefield.
The remarks come at a time when Washington is trying to revive talks with Tehran. US President Donald Trump had earlier announced plans to send a high-level delegation to Islamabad, led by Vice President JD Vance. The team is expected to include senior figures such as Jared Kushner and special envoy Steve Witkoff.
However, uncertainty surrounds the proposed negotiations, as Iran has not committed to participating in the next round. Conflicting reports about the US delegation’s travel schedule have further added to the ambiguity, with indications that Vance had not yet left Washington.
The situation is further complicated by the approaching deadline of the temporary ceasefire, which is set to expire on Wednesday. Trump has made it clear that there are no immediate plans to extend the truce, raising fears that hostilities could intensify if no diplomatic breakthrough is achieved.
The ongoing conflict, now stretching close to two months, has already had wider implications, particularly for global energy markets, as instability in the region threatens key supply routes.
Meanwhile, a separate diplomatic development is unfolding, with Israel and Lebanon preparing for direct talks in Washington later this week. The meeting is expected to be a rare engagement between the two sides after decades without formal dialogue.
Observers note that with both Iran and the US holding firm positions, and time running short on the ceasefire, the chances of a quick resolution remain uncertain.
