Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in an interview with Iranian state television on Wednesday (March 25th) that Tehran has not held any negotiations with the United States, contradicting Washington’s claims of continued engagement.
“So far there have been no negotiations with the enemy and we are not planning any negotiations,” Araghchi said.
The US proposal is being reviewed, but no direct talks
Although Araghchi denied the negotiations, he confirmed that Iran is reviewing the American proposal aimed at ending the conflict in the Persian Gulf.
The foreign minister clarified that communication through intermediaries should not be confused with a formal dialogue.
“Exchanging messages through intermediaries does not mean dealing with the US,” he said.
“In their reports, they present ideas that have been passed on to the highest authorities and, if necessary, communicate the position to them.”
Contradicting White House claims
The remarks are in direct contradiction to statements from the White House, which has said discussions are ongoing.
“Talks are continuing. They are being productive,” spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said at the briefing.
She also warned of escalation if diplomacy fails: “President Trump will make sure they are hit harder than ever before.”
Details of the US 15-point proposal are emerging
According to officials familiar with the plan, the proposal — reportedly sent through Pakistan — includes sweeping demands on Iran.
-Removal of highly enriched uranium stocks
– Stopping uranium enrichment
-Limiting the development of ballistic missiles
-Restriction of support for regional armed groups
– Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz
An Egyptian official involved in the mediation said the plan also addresses sanctions relief and broader de-escalation measures.
Blind spots remain over rockets, regional influence
Several aspects of the proposal represent long-term red lines for Tehran.
Iran has consistently refused to negotiate over its ballistic missile program or support for regional allies, which it considers vital to national security.
A key strategic lever for Iran remains control over the Strait of Hormuz – through which about a fifth of the world’s oil reserves pass.
Trump warns of a stronger military response
Donald Trump has hinted that failure to reach an agreement could trigger more intense military action.
“If they don’t understand that they’ve been defeated militarily … President Trump is going to make sure they’re hit harder than ever before,” Leavitt said.
Power outages raise global stakes
The ongoing conflict has already affected global energy markets.
Iran’s actions targeting regional energy infrastructure and restricting movement through the Strait of Hormuz have boosted oil prices and increased pressure on the US and its allies to secure a solution.
Read also | WH says Trump ‘not bluffing…ready to unleash hell’ if Iran rejects deal
