Iran has hardened its stance ahead of the proposed fresh round of talks with the US, signalling deep mistrust even as Washington seeks last-minute negotiations before the ceasefire deadline. "We do not believe in deadlines or ultimatums for securing Iran's national interests," Iran Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said Monday. He added a warning: "If they make a new adventure, we are definitely fully prepared to defend the country."
Baghaei reiterated that Tehran sees little credibility in the current diplomatic push. "There is definitely no trust in negotiations with the US; there is no trust between Iran and the US," he said. "We do not see seriousness in the US."
The remarks come as US Vice President JD Vance is leading a delegation to Islamabad for another round of talks before Tuesday night's ceasefire deadline. The outreach is being projected by Washington as a final opportunity to secure a deal or extend the truce.
But in Tehran, suspicion runs deep.
Officials believe the talks could be a cover for escalation. Reports suggest Iranian authorities fear the US may use negotiations as a smokescreen for a surprise attack.
That skepticism stands in contrast to the confidence expressed by US President Donald Trump, who said, "I feel fine about it. The concept of the deal is done. I think we have a very good chance to get it completed."
The diplomatic push comes amid escalating tensions on the ground. Iran has moved to shut the Strait of Hormuz again and launched attacks on commercial vessels, rattling global markets and raising fears of a wider conflict. Tehran has blamed Washington for the crisis, with Baghaei saying the European Union "cannot blame Iran solely due to concerns about fuel prices while knowing that the United States is the cause and instigator of this situation".
"Our request from the European Union is to base its opinions and positions on facts, not merely to please the United States," he added.
At the same time, Baghaei defended Iran's military posture. "We did not start the war and will continue to defend ourselves as long as Iran's interests require," he said. "Without a doubt, if the US or the Zionist regime commits a new adventure, the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran will be fully prepared to defend the country."
Washington, meanwhile, has combined diplomatic outreach with stark warnings. "Iran decided to fire bullets yesterday in the Strait of Hormuz - A Total Violation of our Ceasefire Agreement!" Trump said, while confirming US officials would head to Islamabad.
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