New delhi: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said mediation efforts led by Pakistan regarding ongoing indirect negotiations with the US have not failed but are facing a 'very difficult course,' citing mistrust toward Washington and contradictory American messaging. Speaking to international journalists at the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi, India's capital, on the sidelines of the BRICS foreign ministers' meeting, Araghchi said Iran remained committed to diplomacy despite what he described as a 'shaky' ceasefire following the recent war involving the US and Israel against Iran.
According to Anadolu Agency, Araghchi stated that Tehran would only engage in 'real negotiations' if the other side demonstrates seriousness and seeks a 'fair and balanced deal.' He expressed skepticism towards the US, noting, 'We have no trust in Americans. This is a fact, and this is the main obstacle in the way of any diplomatic effort.' Araghchi alleged that Washington's 'contradictory messages' are also causing problems in negotiations, adding, 'Sometimes in one day we receive two different messages.'
Referring to recent statements by US President Donald Trump, Araghchi mentioned that claims of Washington rejecting Iran's response to a US proposal were linked to comments made several days earlier. He noted that after Trump's description of Iran's position as 'unacceptable' in a social media post, Tehran later received additional messages from the US indicating willingness to continue dialogue.
The Iranian foreign minister also confirmed that talks with the US had reached a near deadlock over Iran's enriched uranium stockpile. He explained, 'The subject of our enriched material is a very complicated one, and we have now come to the conclusion with Americans that since it is very difficult, we are almost in a deadlock on this particular question.' He stated that both sides agreed to postpone discussions on this issue to later stages of negotiations.
Regarding Pakistan's mediation efforts and the potential involvement of China, Araghchi said that Islamabad's initiative remains active despite difficulties. 'The mediation process by Pakistan has not failed yet, but it is in a very difficult course, mostly because of the Americans' behavior and the mistrust that exists between us,' he said. Araghchi also welcomed any constructive diplomatic role by China, noting their strategic partnership and past assistance in regional diplomacy.
Addressing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi emphasized that Iran does not seek nuclear weapons and described Tehran's nuclear program as peaceful. He reassured that the Strait remains open for commercial shipping except for vessels from hostile countries, adding that Iranian authorities should be consulted for safe passage due to 'mines and obstacles' in the area.
Araghchi underscored strong economic ties between Tehran and New Delhi, acknowledging a decline in bilateral trade due to US sanctions. He highlighted the significance of Chabahar Port as a symbol of cooperation between Iran and India, expressing hope for its continued development as a strategic transit hub linking South Asia with Central Asia and Europe.