TEHRAN — Iran has voiced deep skepticism about the United States’ intentions ahead of possible new negotiations, dimming hopes for a breakthrough this weekend, according to Tasnim News Agency.
While American media have hinted at talks possibly taking place on Saturday or Sunday, sources in Tehran say Iran remains unconvinced of Washington’s “good faith” or willingness to negotiate without heavy-handed demands. Iranian officials argue that past breaches of commitments by the US have eroded trust and sharply reduced the chance of meaningful progress in any new round.
Communication between the two sides continues indirectly, through Pakistani mediators. Iran reportedly told them that future talks would only make sense if the US first honored previous pledges and stopped what Tehran sees as an “habitual pattern” of unrealistic demands.
Pakistan has been working to arrange a second round since brokering a two week ceasefire on April 8, following months of fighting triggered by the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei and senior military officers on February 28. That attack led to a swift and fierce Iranian response, with a 40 day wave of strikes on US and Israeli positions across the region. Many observers say the counterattacks caused significant damage and extended hostilities far beyond what Washington expected.
During earlier talks in Islamabad, Iran had presented a ten point peace proposal focused on ending US sanctions, withdrawing American troops from the region, and gaining control over the key Strait of Hormuz. The discussions stretched for more than 21 hours but produced no agreement. Iranian negotiators left frustrated, accusing the US of inconsistency and political gamesmanship.
Now, with Pakistan trying to bring both sides back to the table, Tehran insists a framework must be agreed upon first or the talks, once again, will lead nowhere.
