Tehran: Iran denied reports that it had contacted the US in recent days, describing such claims as 'completely false,' according to an informed Iranian source speaking to the semi-official Tasnim News Agency.

According to Anadolu Agency, the source refuted reports by Axios about communications between the two nations, characterizing the outlet as known for publishing 'fake news' concerning Iran-US relations. The source emphasized that as military and economic pressure mounts on US President Donald Trump, Washington is sending 'signals of negotiations' in an attempt to influence global energy markets.

The source further noted that US military operations and destruction targeting Iranian citizens have not diminished, but are reportedly increasing. Iran, the source stated, has 'no trust' in Trump's promises, citing past instances where the US president allegedly disrupted progressing negotiations and initiated attacks on Iran.

Additionally, the source underscored that no agreement would be deemed acceptable unless it ensures the 'long-term national security interests' of Iran and its regional partners. The source remarked that the regional situation 'will certainly not return to what it was before the war.'

The escalation in the region has intensified since the US and Israel launched a joint offensive on Iran on February 28, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths, including that of then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In response, Tehran has carried out drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, along with Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries, which it claims are engaging with 'US military assets.'