TEHRAN — Iran signaled it is willing to return to negotiations with the United States, but only if Washington abandons what it described as an “excessive approach” and threatening rhetoric, according to state media.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made the remarks while briefing counterparts in Türkiye, Egypt, Iraq and Azerbaijan, Press TV reported.
Araghchi said Iran did not initiate the war and that its armed forces remain fully prepared to respond to any renewed military threat.
He added that Tehran had entered the latest Pakistan-mediated talks in good faith despite deep skepticism toward Washington, citing what he described as repeated failures by the United States to honor previous commitments.
The United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran on Feb. 28, prompting attacks by Tehran against U.S. allies in the Gulf and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
A ceasefire was brokered on April 8 through mediation by Pakistan, followed by talks in Islamabad on April 11–12 that ended without agreement.
U.S. President Donald Trump later extended the truce without setting a new deadline, at Pakistan’s request.
According to the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Iran submitted a new proposal to Pakistan on Thursday to resume negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.
Source: Saudi Gazette