Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran

Tehran, Mar 24: Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi stated on Monday that Iran will not engage in direct negotiations with the United States unless Washington changes its approach toward Tehran. However, he emphasized that indirect communication channels remain open.

Speaking at a Red Crescent Society event in Tehran, Araghchi criticized the U.S. government's "maximum pressure" strategy, arguing that continued threats and sanctions prevent any direct diplomatic engagement. "Unless there is a fundamental shift in U.S. policy, direct talks are out of the question," he told reporters.

Despite ruling out direct negotiations, Araghchi reassured that Iran is prepared for any geopolitical scenario and dismissed speculation about an impending conflict. "There will be no war. Iran is fully prepared," he asserted, as reported.

Meanwhile, Behrouz Kamalvandi, spokesperson for the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, reiterated that Tehran is willing to fully comply with the 2015 nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), provided its rights under the agreement are respected.

Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have escalated following new American sanctions targeting Iranian individuals, companies, and vessels linked to oil exports. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei condemned the sanctions, labeling them as a sign of Washington’s ongoing hostility. He accused the U.S. of violating international law and acting against Iran’s economic interests while falsely claiming readiness for dialogue.

Since the U.S. withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018 under former President Donald Trump, Iran has gradually reduced its commitments under the deal, though it maintains that its nuclear program remains peaceful.