Antalya (TDI): Iran has said that no date has yet been fixed for the next round of negotiations with the United States, stressing that both sides must first agree on a basic framework before talks can proceed.
Speaking at a diplomatic forum in Antalya, Iran’s deputy foreign minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said that recent high-level Iran–US talks in Islamabad ended without an agreement, although some progress was made.
He said Iran does not want to enter negotiations that are likely to fail or lead to further escalation, adding that discussions are currently focused on establishing a mutually acceptable framework.
Khatibzadeh accused the United States of taking a “maximalist” approach, particularly on Iran’s nuclear programme, which he said goes beyond international law. He stressed that Iran would not accept any arrangement that places it outside international legal norms.
He added that once a framework is agreed, a date for the next round of talks could be set. Responding to reports about the Strait of Hormuz, he said Iran had ensured safe passage for commercial vessels in line with ceasefire understandings. He accused the US of attempting to undermine this arrangement through contradictory statements and restrictions.
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Khatibzadeh also criticized US messaging, saying it was inconsistent and frequently changing, particularly in relation to President Donald Trump’s public statements.
He reiterated that Iran would defend its sovereignty and national interests, describing the country as a long-standing civilisation that would resist external pressure.
On regional diplomacy, Egypt’s foreign minister said efforts were underway, in coordination with Pakistan and Turkiye, to help broker a final agreement between Iran and the United States. He expressed hope that progress could be achieved in the coming days, warning that continued conflict was affecting global stability.
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Meanwhile, Pakistan’s leadership, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, has recently concluded separate visits aimed at supporting diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions. Both have held meetings with Iranian leadership as part of broader mediation efforts.
The situation remains fluid, with international and regional actors continuing efforts to prevent further escalation and push the sides back toward structured negotiations.
