Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran
Tehran, Apr 11: In a powerful display blending symbolism with diplomacy, Mohammad Ghalibaf, speaker of Iran’s Parliament, shared a striking image from his flight to Islamabad that underscored Tehran’s narrative ahead of crucial negotiations.
Inside the aircraft, several empty seats were arranged with photographs, school bags, and roses representing children and staff killed in the Minab school attack. The visual tribute served as a reminder of the lives lost in the February 28, 2026 strike, which Iran attributes to a joint US-Israeli operation.
Posting the image on X, Ghalibaf captioned it, “My companions on this flight, Minab 168,” invoking the victims as symbolic fellow passengers. The incident, which reportedly left over 165 dead and more than 100 injured, has since become central to Iran’s messaging as it heads into negotiations.
Upon landing in Islamabad, Ghalibaf struck a measured but firm tone, saying Iran approaches the talks with “good intentions but no trust.” Speaking to Tasnim News Agency, he pointed to a history of unsuccessful negotiations with the United States, alleging repeated breaches of commitments.
He emphasized that the outcome of the upcoming discussions would largely depend on Washington’s approach. According to him, Iran remains open to a genuine agreement—provided it respects the rights of the Iranian people—but warned against what he described as superficial or insincere diplomacy.
On the US side, Vice President J. D. Vance signaled a willingness to engage, stating that Washington is prepared for dialogue if Iran negotiates in good faith. However, he also cautioned that any attempt to mislead or stall would be met with a firm response.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump weighed in through social media, suggesting that Iran may be overstating its bargaining power. He also referenced tensions in the Strait of Hormuz as part of the broader geopolitical backdrop shaping the talks.
As both sides prepare for discussions in Islamabad, the atmosphere remains tense, with symbolism, skepticism, and strategic messaging defining the road to potential negotiation.